Andrew Parramore is optimistic that Weownachevy can rectify a disappointing and unlucky run at Doomben when the gelding competes at Ipswich on Wednesday.
The form book will record the three-year-old crossing the line in fifth place, beaten by 3-1/2 lengths, but Weownachevy experienced considerable interference during the race, being checked numerous times and only finding clear running room in the final 100 metres.
Sent out as the $1.80 favourite, Weownachevy was ridden by 3kg claiming apprentice Bella Youngberry, who has been turning heads with 18 wins this season at a 23% strike rate. Parramore, himself a former jockey, acknowledged that such occurrences are part of the racing landscape.
“The horse probably didn’t help because he came out about a neck behind,” Parramore said.
“I mean coming into the turn I would have probably preferred her to come back and just go around and get to the outside, but if she gets through along the inside she’s a genius.
“But anyway, she’s only a three-girl and she’s still learning, but she’s going really good.”
Aware that Weownachevy likely has only a few more starts left in this preparation, Parramore has engaged senior jockey Andrew Mallyon for the Ipswich race. The gelding will start from the outside barrier in a field of 11 over 1350m.
“I’ll leave the tactics to Andrew,” Parramore commented.
“They’ve done all their homework, they don’t need me to tell them how to ride, especially blokes like Mallyon, so he’ll have done some work and he’ll work out his plan.
“I don’t think we’ll push on too much further, maybe another run or two.
“He’s a big, immature sort of horse. Big, raw bones and I think he’ll be a lot better next time in when he starts filling out into himself a little bit more.
“He’s just doing this on sort of raw ability at the moment so hopefully he can get away with a maiden this prep.”
Check out the betting sites for the upcoming Ipswich race.