Racing kicks off in the new year at Flemington tomorrow, where OTI has two leading chances in the 2800m Listed Bagot Handicap, worth $160,000.
The Maher & Eustace trained Azuro resumes after a short let-up following his dominant win in the 3200m Listed Sandown Cup in mid-November. His record at 2800m and beyond is outstanding, only finishing out of the placings on one occasion from four starts, which includes two wins at Listed level. He’s thoroughly enjoyed his time at Balnarring Beach and resumes here a fit and healthy horse, ready to continue his rich run of form.
High Bridge is less fancied in the market than Azuro but enters the race third-up and ready to peak. He has closed off strongly in his first two runs this preparation, which was highlighted when finishing 2nd in the Listed Christmas Cup at Randwick in mid-December. Although his last victory came in September last year, it would not surprise us to see him winning at Listed level for the first time on Wednesday.
Best of luck to connections and happy new year too all!