Following a forgettable outing at Eagle Farm, trainer Michael Morrison believes Venom Rush is poised for a turnaround at Ipswich this Thursday.
The three-year-old’s last start saw him finish at the tail of the 17-horse field in the Listed Queensland Day Stakes over 1200m on June 6. While the stable didn’t anticipate such a result, especially with the colt being a $41 outsider, Morrison sees the run as a lead-in to stepping back to Class 1 company in the Barrier Reef Pools Handicap over the same distance.
“I’m more than certain he’s got a good race in him,” Morrison stated.
“We thought we would be more competitive in that race but if you have a quick squiz at the replay, we’re three-wide early and then from that point I think the white towel was thrown up.”
“So he pulled up from that really well considering that he’s pretty much gone around for a track gallop.”
“He was beaten 7.5-lengths in a listed race so I wouldn’t be using that run as an indicator.”
Despite not being a high-priced acquisition, Venom Rush was purchased by Morrison for $1,500 in 2024. With one win and two placings from seven starts, the colt has already amassed over $25,000 in earnings, making a cheque in any race a priority.
“The barrier gods haven’t been overly kind to us but we’ll just have to go back on him and ride him for luck,” Morrison added, commenting on barrier 15.
According to Racing and Sports Senior Handicapper, Adam Blencowe, the tendency for horses starting from behind to win at Ipswich is more pronounced than many observers realise.
“(But) most races there are run at a fairly genuine tempo,” Morrison concurred. “I think that gives most horses their chance. You’ve just got to be careful not to swoop four or five wide but instead try and cut the corner and look for some room when you level up.”
Morrisson has enlisted the services of young jockey Brandon Lerena, cousin to prominent South African jockey Gavin Lerena. Lerena boasts a 13% winning strike-rate with Morrison and a 32.6% placing rate, with his record at Ipswich slightly better at 14.5% winners and nearly 40% placings.
“He’s probably my number one jockey,” Morrison commented. “He knows the horse inside out and I think he’s the sort of rider who is capable of getting a horse to settle nicely.”
“Brandon always gives the 100% and he’s going to be one you want on, for sure.”
Punters looking to get involved can find the best racing odds at Australian betting sites.
