The second jumps meeting of the season is at Warrnambool on Thursday. It’s only six weeks until the highlight of the jumping year, the Grand Annual at this very track.
Race 1 – GM Cabinets Maiden Hurdle, 3200m
The Declan Maher pair of Nelson and Toyetic look a class above the rest and of those two, Nelson is the clear pick. A dual Group 3 winner in Ireland – and once beaten less than five lengths in a Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – he has been a disappointment on the flat in this country but his hurdle trials have been excellent. The great Steve Pateman takes his first outside ride of the season.
Strategy: Back Nelson.
Race 2 – Subway Warrnambool Open Hurdle, 3200m
A race in two between last week’s winners San Remo and Epizeel. Both were tipped here at big prices. Sticking with San Remo as he looks the value. The gelding has long shown good talent at the jumping caper and he ran more than two seconds faster when winning last week. Could go either way, but he’s the pick.
Strategy: Back San Remo.
Race 3 – Wilsons Real Estate Open Steeplechase, 3450m
Giving Mighty Oasis another chance at his first run over fences. His run last week was better than it reads on paper as it was just some poor jumping in the latter stages that allowed the margin to blow out. His prior steeple trial around this course was terrific and he’s long shown more ability than most of these. Rexmont the danger. Police Camp is a terrific old jumper but suspect he will need the run.
Strategy: Back Mighty Oasis.
Multi
Three short-priced favourites here who should all be winning. Will be looking to roll them up into a multi.
