The summer action continues this weekend and we’re very much looking forward to seeing the OTI silks in two stakes races.
We tasted our first Magic Millions success last year when Lady Laguna ran away a dominant winner of the $1m Fillies & Mares event, springboarding her towards a Group 1 victory the following autumn. West Of Africa, also trained by Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald, is looking to raise the bar in a similar manner.
A winner of 3 metropolitan races since joining us, West Of Africa has continued to progress and shows the characteristics of a horse who can reach open class. Stepping into Listed company, coupled with a horror draw, won’t make life easy for the son of Not A Single Doubt.
He did however put the writing on the wall first up that he’s come back in terrific shape, closing off strongly at Randwick. That form got a good boost again on Saturday, with Accredited running away a dominant 4 length winner in Saturday company.
West Of Africa wins at Randwick in August 2024.
Tyler Schiller has his work cut out for him from the widest alley but with some luck and good pace up front, we expect to see West Of Africa closing off very well.
To view the full field and details, click here.
Over in New Zealand on Sunday, recent acquisition Golden Century will get a first true test of his Derby credentials when he steps out in the 2100m Listed Gingernuts Salver at Ellerslie. 2nd at his first start for new connections, the 3yo got no favours in running and showed he still has a way to go with his craft.
Trainer Tony Pike has always felt the horse would come into his own over a staying journey, and the big galloping track will certainly assist. Despite entering the race as a maiden, he’s there with strong claims.
To view the full field and details, click here.
Good luck to all those involved with both of our stakes runners this weekend.