The January Cup meeting will be held at Rosehill Gardens this Saturday (13th Jan). The course proper was rated a Good 4 on Thursday and with light drizzle over the next couple of days, Rosehill is likely to be racing on a Good track on raceday.
Gelatin could take out the opening event at Rosehill on Saturday (Sydney Race 1, 1500m). This Michael Freedman-trained 3YO has come of age this preparation winning two from two. First-up on December 20, the Snitzel colt broke his maiden status at Warwick Farm before taking out a 1400m in a BM64 handicap. Fitter being third-up on Saturday and is ready to step up to 1500m. Fresh from his winning ride on Accredited at Warwick Farm on Wednesday, Rory Hutchings is looking for another winner and this time on Gelatin. With reasonable pace in the race, Hutchings will settle mid-field with cover and Gelatin will be dashing home strongly.
Gallant Star can go on with his good form by taking out the Inglis Classic Sale Handicap (Sydney Race 4, 1300m). This Brett Robb-trained 4YO is only lightly raced but is very consistent having not missed a place from seven career starts. Gallant Star resumed with a close 2nd over 1100m in a Highway Handicap before winning brilliantly from a wide gate last start. Fitter again and stepping up to 1300m should be ideal. Sam Clipperton retains the ride and he should settle closer on the fence just behind the leaders from barrier 1. With a cosy run in transit, Gallant Star will keep on winning.
Top weight Luncies is the highest rated horse in the January Cup and he could be the one to beat (Sydney Race 7, 2000m). This Kris Lees-trained 7YO gelding had raced against strong oppositions in the spring in races like the Hill Stakes, Bendigo Cup and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. After a freshen up, Luncies finished a close 2nd to Lion’s Roar in the Summer Cup last start. Staying at 2000m suits and ‘The Everest’ winning jockey Sam Clipperton will take over the rein on Saturday. Having drawn gate 1, Clipperton will go forward and box seat and Luncies will showcase his class in the run home.
By Owens Wong
