Harry’s Yacht will face a new challenge on Saturday as Will Larkin tests the in-form gelding over 1600 metres in the Vobis Gold Reef at Flemington.
The four-year-old has been a model of consistency this campaign, notching two benchmark victories and placing twice in Vobis events over shorter trips.
Larkin, who trains alongside Leon & Troy Corstens, said the mile had always been part of the long-term plan, particularly with the gelding receiving a favourable weight.
“It’s a distance we’ve always thought that he’d get to eventually,” Larkin said.
“He still just does a little bit wrong in the early stage of his races, but I think if he can find a bum to follow, he’ll really be relishing to the line.”
Confidence grew after Harry’s Yacht’s latest win over 1400 metres at Geelong, prompting the stable to move away from sprint trips.
“I think just stepping up to 1400 (metres) was a big plus for him,” Larkin said.
“We probably ran one or two too many at the 1200 when you look back on it now.
“But he’s really good, he’s come on again.”
The presence of topweight Jimmy The Bear has compressed the weights, allowing Harry’s Yacht to sneak in at the minimum despite holding the second-highest rating in the race.
“I think with Jimmy The Bear being in the race and getting in with 54 kilos is a bit of a steal,” Larkin said.
“It’s good prize money for these Vobis Gold races as well.
“It’s a box that he’s still going to tick, the mile, but I’m pretty confident that he will.”
Punters can find early markets with major online bookmakers for Saturday’s Flemington feature.
Harry’s Yacht heads the market at $3.10 for the $175,000 race, with Luke Currie engaged to ride.
The post Mile test for Harry’s Yacht first appeared on Just Horse Racing.