Warrnambool-based galloper Oliveanotherday significantly enhanced its prospects of securing a start in The Everest with a compelling performance at Caulfield.
Following a victory in the Listed Wangoom Handicap during the Warrnambool May Carnival, Oliveanotherday made a successful return from a spell by capturing the Group 3 The Heath 1100 on Saturday.
Sent off as the $2.30 favourite under the guidance of Harry Coffey, Oliveanotherday crossed the line a 1-½ length winner from Bridal Waltz ($3.70), with War Machine ($6) a further 1-¼ lengths adrift in third.
Trainer Tom Dabernig indicated that there had been some interest in Oliveanotherday for a berth in the $20 million The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 17.
“If the opportunity presented, we would fully embrace it,” Dabernig stated.
“There has been a little bit of interest in the horse, but I think they were keen to see what he did today.
“It would be a good opportunity for horse, trainer and owner, but we won’t get ahead of ourselves, just yet.”
Dabernig’s immediate focus is on achieving a Group 1 win for Oliveanotherday.
The Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on September 27 is a likely target, while Dabernig also mentioned the Group 2 Bobbie Lewis Quality (1200m) at Flemington on September 12 as a possible next outing.
A run down the straight could ultimately lead to a Group 1 sprint event during Melbourne Cup week at Flemington.
Dabernig confessed to feeling anxious during Saturday’s race as Oliveanotherday was positioned behind the leader, Bridal Waltz, along the fence.
“We were a little bit concerned with barrier one and I was mindful, talking to Harry Coffey during the week, of not wanting to chase the speed and to hold a position and give him too hard a run,” Dabernig explained.
“But in doing so, turning for home and when he was held up, we were all a bit tense.
“He’s a horse that can quicken and get himself out of trouble in two or three strides and when he hit the front, I saw that Harry didn’t have to use the whip all that much and was hands and heels and he won nicely.
“It’s a great way to kick the preparation off and hopefully he can continue into the spring and take those next steps.”
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