Cauthen’s Power turns around form

Trainer Chris Munce was not surprised when Cauthen’s Power turned its form around in a week to win the Open Handicap on the Sunshine Coast.

Munce thought Cauthen’s Power could win at Ipswich last week but after leading the gelding stopped quickly to run last.

“He’s been working well and his previous two runs were good. I think the fact he had to lead did not suit him at Ipswich. I thought if we could ride him back this time it would make a big difference,” Munce said.

“I also changed things around a bit with his gear.”

Munce booked Ron Stewart, who won on Pinch Passion earlier on Saturday, and it proved a winning move.

Cauthen’s Power ($41) charged down the crown of the track to beat Sabkhat ($2.90) by half a length in the 1800m race, with Monteux ($6.50) a further 2-1/4 lengths back in third.

The win gave Munce a special buzz because Cauthen’s Power has some high-profile connections, with Australian cricket captain Steve Smith.

“Max Whitby who has been a great supporter of mine and Richard Callander’s wife, Kaye, are also in the horse,” Munce said.

Trainer Tony Gollan admitted he was surprised when Just Orm ($18) gave him the middle leg of an early treble by winning the Yaroomba Beach Handicap (1000m).

“He’s a good horse and at one stage we thought he would make a Magic Millions Classic horse. His trials have been good and he looked well suited on a track he likes,” Gollan said.

“But when I got here he had sweated up badly and looked terrible. I nearly gave up hope.”

Gollan won with What’s That ($6.50), who ran a class record when he won the benchmark 80 race over 2200m.

“It was a good effort because we had to ease him after his last start six weeks ago because of a virus. But he has plenty of ability.”

Jeff Lloyd rode What’s That and can expect more rides from Gollan.

“(Lloyd) would fair-dinkum win on a broomstick. I better start using him more,” Gollan said.

He also had an early win with My Girl Hayley ($6), who made it three wins from five starts at Caloundra.

“She’s one horse who has come on in leaps and bounds with swimming. She loves it and it has really helped her breathing,” Gollan said.

Credit: AAP

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