We saw numerous good performances last weekend from the OTI contingent, headlined by the 7-time winning grey Cloudland getting back to his best at Rosehill!
The winter action continues for us this weekend with runners in four different states.
At Randwick on Saturday
It was a slightly uncharacteristic performance from Step Aside last start and he’s out to make amends in the 1400m BM88. This is a tough race and he’ll need to bounce back in a big way to feature in the finish but as a two-time Saturday-class winner this prep, he shouldn’t be underestimated.
At Doomben on Saturday
We’ve got two geldings in the 2000m BM78 with Eaglemont down to carry topweight (pre-claim). Although in the twilight of his career, the 8yo showed last start there’s still winning fight in him. He’s drawn to get a soft run and will appreciate the good surface again.
Bengal Boy has been racing in good form and he deserves his chance in Saturday company. On dry ground, he may well want further than 2000m but this fits nicely into his program and we expect him to be competitive.
At Murray Bridge on Saturday
Paradise Storm is out to get his campaign back on track in the 2000m BM78. His first-up run was full of promise, and while he’s had an unplanned extended gap between runs, he looks well placed to feature in this contest.
At Bendigo on Sunday
Belthil may resume in the 1300m BM64. His wet track form doesn’t read overly well but he’s trialled nicely in the lead up and should be in for a good campaign. Having been competitive at Saturday level last prep, we’re confident there’s still more to come with him deeper into the prep.
In the second edition of the 1300m BM64s, Tierra may also make her return to the races. The Maher stable have worked hard to get her to settle better in her work, so from a wide gate, she’s likely to be ridden conservatively and allowed to finish off. She has talent but is unlikely to get many favours here.
Tournelle rounds out our weekend in the 1600m BM64. The step up to a mile and the likely heavy track conditions should play to her strengths. While she’s yet to produce her best on race day in Australia, she has the class to be a genuine winning chance here.
We wish all those involved with our horses the very best of luck this weekend!
