Jack Bruce is optimistic about Sir Maurice’s chances at Ipswich Friday, boosted by a favorable weight claim and the gelding’s readiness to break through.

At start number five this term, the five-year-old by Maurice from Japan contests the Great Northern Benchmark 65 Handicap (1200m), venturing to the track west of Brisbane for the first time.

"I think it is a nice race for him," Bruce, based at Deagon, remarked on the horse he rates as solid in this field but not outstanding.

"He drew wide at his last start and had to go all the way back in the run and that made it challenging for him to win the race.

"He got held up at a crucial time and he flew late for second. He’s a horse in really good order at the minute and he’s racing in good spirits.

"We just have to find the race for him and hopefully this is it."

Sir Maurice holds three wins and eight further placings from 23 efforts, a consistent type deserving reward since May 2025.

The gelding ran second latest at Sunshine Coast benchmark 60 over 1200m February 22, retaining Leah Martyn’s services where her 2kg claim sets weight at 56kg.

"She’s riding well and she’s very dedicated," Bruce supplemented.

"She does her homework and as far as two-kilo claimers go in the provincials, she is well worth using and she rode him last start and got held up at the wrong time so she she’ll be hungry for success on him on Friday."

Bruce also lists Sacred Bull for Racing and Sports Benchmark 58 Handicap (2010m), finalising Friday if the six-year-old races Ipswich or Sunshine Coast lights.

Discover sports betting options and racing odds for the Great Northern Benchmark 65 Handicap starring Sir Maurice.