O'Brien Declares Autumn Derby aspirations
He was squeezed out of the field for Saturday's AAMI Victoria Derby (2500m) but progressive stayer Vow And Declare delivered connections a consolation prize on Thursday with a last-gasp win in the Listed TCL TV Stakes (1800m) at Flemington.
Darren Weir's three-year-old Junipal looked to have the race in his keeping when he took the lead inside the final furlong but Vow And Declare, a last-start Warrnambool maiden winner over 2381m, rallied tenaciously under the urgings of Damien Oliver in the final 50m.
Trainer Danny O'Brien said that while he was disappointed to miss last weekend's $2 million classic, it could yet prove a blessing in disguise with the son of Declaration Of War set to chase Derby glory in the autumn.
"We were second emergency in the Derby and he missed a start so we were a bit flat because the way the Derby was run, I think he runs in the top three," O'Brien said.
"He is a very good stayer and he's got big lungs (and a) big heart.
"He only just got the photo (today) but if they run another 200m he probably wins by three lengths.
"You'll see him in a Derby in the autumn, either Adelaide or Sydney I would think."
Story by James Tzaferis for Racing.com, to view full story with race replay click here
Pic by Racing Photos
Jaw-dropping stakes win
[22 Feb 19]
An ice-cold, nerves of steel ride by jockey Brett Prebble allowed Embrace Me to unleash a jaw-dropping display to claim the Group 3 Typhoon Tracy Stakes at Moonee Valley on Friday night. After easing back to last from the widest draw, Prebble threaded his way through the field to record the stunning stakes success.
more...
Tower-ing performance from Savabeel gelding
[19 Feb 19]
Tower Road showed fighting qualities that will hold him good stead for his future racing to secure his maiden victory at Seymour on Tuesday. Sent out a $2 favourite, the son of Savabeel shot to the lead and was then challenged strongly inside the final 100m before kicking to hold a small margin on the line.
more...
Filly Embraces Valley Black-type test
[18 Feb 19]
Danny O’Brien took the opportunity to let Embrace Me have another feel of Moonee Valley on Monday ahead of Friday night’s Group III Typhoon Tracy Stakes.
more...