While the focus at Randwick on Monday morning was on a talented mare by the name of Winx (as it should have been), OTI was a more than just an interested onlooker. Competing against Winx in this trial was Tom Melbourne, now in the hands of Chris Waller.
Since failing in the G1 Australian Cup in March, Tom Melbourne has relocated to Sydney, where it hoped a change of environment and a fresh pair of eyes may result in some different race results. Tom Melbourne has always been renowned as a prodigious, yet unfulfilled talent. Whilst competing well and recording placings at the highest level since his Listed Albury Cup win in April 2016, he has not greeted the judge as a winner in that time.
In what was our first look at Tom Melbourne this preparation, we were pleased with his effort in this trial, finishing a nose behind the great mare. He appeared to race quite tractable, albeit with his head to the side for a period of time. He went to the line with little pressure applied.
Monday’s trial may not be the only time Tom Melbourne meets Winx this preparation. On current timings, they may well meet again at Randwick on September 2 in the Group 2 Chelmsford Stakes over 1600m. Tom is likely to have raced in an Open Handicap over 1400m at Rosehill three weeks prior as a precursor to this meeting. They are likely to again go their separate ways thereafter, with Tom Melbourne’s main initial target being The Metropolitan on September 30, whereas we know Winx is targeting a third Cox Plate victory. Just in case things go very well, Tom Melbourne will also be nominated for the Cox Plate, as well as the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups.
It promises to be an exciting campaign ahead for all our owners.
