Jockey Luke Currie is focused on capitalising on his opportunities following a return from an international holiday and a change in management.
Currie had a limited book of two rides at Sandown on Wednesday, guiding the impressive French Accord to victory before securing a second-place finish. He is set to have two rides at Caulfield this Saturday.
One of his mounts is Winnasedge, trained by Nick Ryan, in the Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes over 1200 metres. Currie was aboard this horse for a victory in the Group 3 Sir John Monash Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on July 11, which was his second day back in the saddle.
“I’ve just changed manager and it can take time,” Currie stated. “You get a relationship with your manager, and they have relationships with racing managers for stables, and coming back from holidays is always hard. You have a week off, and people forget about you.”
While the current period might be challenging, Currie is anticipating reuniting with Winnasedge on Saturday.
Winnasedge secured a win over 1100 metres in June and followed it up two weeks later with a win in the Sir John Monash Stakes.
Currie rode Winnasedge early in its career and recognized its considerable talent.
“I thought he was going to be a really nice horse,” Currie remarked. “He was a bit hot and did a few things wrong, but he had a huge turn of foot, and I think each preparation he has just changed himself a bit and is a bit more adaptable now.”
“Nick told me last time that he was the fit horse as there were a few horses that were coming back,” he added. “His level seems to be rising, and I think he ticks a few boxes going into this and if he gets it right, he’s going to have a good chance on Saturday.”
With four of its six career wins over 1100 metres, that distance appears to be Winnasedge’s preferred, but the sprinter has demonstrated capability over 1200 metres at Caulfield, and Currie is confident the increased distance will not be an issue.
“The 1100 (metres) is probably his sweet spot, but from where he’s drawn (five), he’s got the speed to land in a nice spot,” Currie explained. “I wouldn’t think he has to get back as far as he did the other day, especially over 1200 (metres). I think he’s a beautiful ride.”
For those keen on the Bletchingly Stakes, explore the latest racing odds at Australian betting sites.