In a significant show of confidence, jockey Dylan Gibbons has put his end-of-season holiday plans on hold to partner the promising stayer Thebudgiesmugla in the upcoming Caloundra Cup.
Gibbons had intended to take a break following Saturday’s Tattersall’s Tiara meeting at Eagle Farm. However, these plans were postponed after Bjorn Baker’s racing manager, Luke Hilton, confirmed Thebudgiesmugla’s intention to compete in the feature Sunshine Coast race.
“I pushed my holiday back to ride him in the Caloundra Cup once Luke Hilton mentioned it,” Gibbons stated. “I came in Tuesday morning and galloped him, and I was amazed how he’d come through his last run. After a 2400 metre run, he galloped close enough after that, and just felt amazing. As long as he can hold that into the race he’ll run well.”
Since arriving from New Zealand last year, Thebudgiesmugla has steadily progressed through the grades, securing four victories from eight starts for Baker. His notable achievement includes his first stakes win in the Winter Cup (2400m), with Gibbons in the saddle for that triumph.
The gelding remains undefeated over the 2400m distance. Gibbons is of the opinion that if Thebudgiesmugla can maintain this perfect record at Caloundra, it will serve as an excellent springboard for more significant targets next season, mirroring the success of Half Yours, who clinched the Caloundra Cup 12 months prior before going on to win the Caulfield-Melbourne Cups double in the spring.
“If he can take care of business next Saturday, they can aim higher with him,” Gibbons commented. “The staying ranks do thin out a bit in Australia, and I think he’s the right horse to continue going through the grades. He has ticked the 2400 metre box a few times and won in Listed grade, so hopefully he can start to step up and take on the better horses.”
Thebudgiesmugla has demonstrated adaptability across various track conditions, winning on surfaces ranging from good to heavy. Gibbons highlighted this versatility as a key advantage, particularly given the unpredictable Queensland winter weather.
“The wetter the better, but he can do it on top of the ground,” he said. “He’s got a great racing style, and he is flying at the minute.”
For those considering a wager, the Caloundra Cup presents an intriguing contest. You can explore the latest racing odds and betting markets for this event at Australian betting sites.
