Ray Dawson, the jockey set to partner Enfjaar in the Caulfield Cup, has landed in Melbourne for his first ride in the iconic Australian race. Despite a long-haul flight from England, the 33-year-old rider promptly visited the Werribee training facility to see his mount.
Arriving early Wednesday morning, Dawson reunited with Enfjaar, the $11 outsider for Saturday’s 2400-metre feature, after observing the horse’s morning track gallop. “I’m tired and it is a bit colder than I thought it would be, but I am excited and I’ve just seen Enfjaar and he looks really well and ready and set for Saturday,” Dawson conveyed.
He noted the horse’s composed demeanour, stating, “I just said to (the team) that he is very relaxed. He can have days at home where he is a bit irate and he wears a hood galloping and he wore a hood at Goodwood to keep the noise levels down but he seems really relaxed over there. There’s not a problem on him.” Dawson also acknowledged that Enfjaar can be “a bit highly strung and that is in his character,” but hopes this placid state will continue on race day.
The draw of barrier one is another positive factor for Dawson, who is unconcerned about the initial scramble to the first bend, having received guidance from James McDonald. “I was happy to see him draw one and that makes life a little bit easier. Hopefully we get a clear run,” he added.
Reviewing past performances, Dawson commented, “I’ve watched a lot of replays and they seem to go quite quick to the bend and steady up. I’ve watched the last ten years of replays and it seems that you need to have a good horse but also luck.” He anticipates that the Caulfield track may present a new challenge for Enfjaar, but feels confident. “It will be different for Enfjaar as he’s probably never experienced track like it but it is a horse race and I’m well used to it. We’ll go on there with a bit of confidence and hopefully get a bit of luck on the way around.”
Dawson also observed the gelding’s significant improvement throughout the current year. “He has got a lot better this year. Even at Goodwood he was a lot better in the parade and the way around.” The pair’s victory in the Group 3 Glorious Stakes (2414m) at Goodwood in June set the stage for this Melbourne trip, which Dawson considered a straightforward decision.
The Roger Varian-trained six-year-old gelding will have his final serious gallop on Thursday morning under Dawson’s guidance.
Consider the racing betting markets for the Caulfield Cup at your preferred Australian betting sites.
