Brad Widdup is hopeful that Jedibeel can overcome a recent narrow defeat and claim victory in the Doomben 10,000.

The sprinter was edged out by Libertad in the Victory Stakes (1200m), a result reminiscent of Widdup’s experiences with Icebath, who narrowly missed wins in the Golden Eagle, Doncaster Mile, and Cantala Stakes.

“I have been through a few of them,” Widdup commented. “I’m the King of photo finishes that don’t fall my way. It’s a big thrill to see them run well in big races but you’ve got to have a tough demeanour to get through it.”

Icebath eventually secured a win in the 2022 Empire Rose Stakes, and Widdup is optimistic that Jedibeel can achieve similar success. The five-year-old has been strategically developed, culminating in a win at the Group 2 Challenge Stakes (1000m) and a solid performance in the Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes (1200m).

“I have probably just held him back a little bit and he is finally getting there,” Widdup noted. “It has been good to give him a trip away and he ran great the other day. Another run or two up there won’t hurt him then we will probably stop and see what happens in the spring but he’s going really well.”

Drawn in barrier three, Jedibeel is set for a favorable run in a competitive field. Tyler Schiller, who previously rode him to victory, will be aboard once again.

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