The scratching of Hezashocka from Friday night’s firm track at The Valley has led to a dual-hand approach for OTI in Wednesday’s Bendigo Cup, with Hezashocka now joining Mark Twain in contesting the Group 3 feature.
Hezashocka is a different commodity when he gains softer track conditions, so the rain already received at the ‘Nursery of Champions’ has been welcome and gives confidence that the horse can return to his better form of 2024. With Beau Mertens in the saddle, a much more forward showing for the Price Kent stable wouldn’t surprise should suitable conditions remain.
Hezashocka – Group 3 Premier’s Cup win at Eagle Farm
Mark Twain remains a Melbourne Cup prospect and will utilise the Bendigo Cup as a last chance to run into some form in the lead-up. He commenced his Melbourne preparation with a most impressive effort over 1600m in the Makybe Diva Stakes in September, where he finished just 3 lengths behind back-to-back Cox Plate winner Via Sistina, in the race won by Mr Brightside. Since then, he hasn’t had a lot go right. Between wide gates, wide runs and over-racing, his performances have been a little underwhelming, despite looking in immaculate order for Roger James and Robert Wellwood. He’s received a more favorable barrier this week, drawing 6. It is hoped that obtaining cover and some cut in the ground will bring about a better performance and his trademark finishing burst.
Mark Twain – Listed Roy Higgins win at Flemington
It promises to be a busy Bendigo Cup day for the team, with a further 4 runners on the day. It is always exciting to debut young fillies on such a big occasion, and we have two 3yo’s engaged in the first race on the card. Kippis (by Exceed and Excel) and Somersault (full sister to Vivy Air) have both jumped out strongly in recent weeks and appear ready for their next career milestone.
Everything Counts has been a model of consistency across his last two preparations and finds a suitable Benchmark 70 here for Price and Kent over the mile. Similarly, Tournelle strikes another winning opportunity late in the day in her Benchmark 70 over 1300m for Anthony & Sam Freedman.