The OTI silks will be carried in three countries this weekend, including runners in the Group 2 Feehan Stakes at Moonee Valley and Group 3 La Coupe de Maisons-Laffitte at Longchamp.
Moonee Valley
Benitoite will race in a Fillies and Mares BenchMark 84 over 1200m (Race 1 – 12:30 pm) for the Clinton McDonald stable. McDonald remarked that she is fit and fully matured as she kicks off her third preparation. We are hoping for softer ground and should the conditions suit, we expect her to find the finish line strongly with Ben Melham in the saddle.
Harbour Views looks to secure a golden ticket into the Cox Plate when he contests the Group 2 Feehan Stakes over 1600m (Race 8 – 4:45 pm). Coming off the back of a short freshen up, Matthew Williams couldn’t be happier with the six-year-old gelding and is confident that he will perform strongly, with John Allen aboard.
In his first start for new trainer Symon Wilde, Vin De Dance will contest a 2040m Handicap (Race 9 – 5:20 pm). The New Zealand Derby winner is in great shape and will lay the foundation for a good campaign with William Pike taking the ride.
Te Rapa
Across the Tasman Sea in New Zealand, Vee Cece resumes in a 1400m Handicap (Race 7 – 1:15 pm AEST) at Te Rapa for the Murray Baker & Andrew Forsman stable. The five-year-old mare has drawn nicely and will take great improvement from the run. Jockey Craig Grylls rides.
Longchamp
On Sunday night Mr Satchmo is set to contest the Group 3 La Coupe de Maisons-Laffitte over 2000m (Race 5 – 11:50 pm AEST). He has come through his last run well and is expected to be competitive for trainer Antoine de Watrigant. This will be his final race in Europe before he begins his journey to Australia for the Spring Carnival.
Best of luck to all connections!