Pounding is set to chase a valuable payday at Caulfield this weekend as he lines up in the lucrative VOBIS Gold Heath (2000m) with $96,250 in prizemoney and an additional $30,000 bonus on offer.

The durable gelding, trained by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, has earned over $63,000 this preparation from six starts, despite not registering a win. His career record stands at 53 starts for eight victories and 16 minor placings, with just under $1.45 million in earnings.

Pounding will back up just seven days after finishing fifth in the Listed Winter Championship Final (1600m) at Flemington. The Caulfield event will be his first run over 2000m in nearly a year.

“He loves a seven-day back-up, so it was always the plan,” Moody said.

“It’s a VOBIS race and he’s amongst his own again this week.

“He arguably should have won the other day as he didn’t get a crack at them until late, but it sets him up well for this one.”

He’ll again face Jimmy The Bear, who beat him home last weekend, although this time the weight scale is less favourable for Pounding.

“He’s got Jimmy The Bear to contend with again, but a different one seems to win each week,” Moody said.

“He’s in good order and hopefully it’s our turn on Saturday.

“He’s been consistent throughout his career, and he’s won $60,000 this campaign without winning a race and won over $1.4 million overall.

“You would like three or four of them in the yard, as he’s always a chance every time he runs.”

Looking beyond Saturday, Moody said a return to country cups like the Sale Cup—which Pounding won last year—could be on the cards during the spring.

With strong form and a proven record, Pounding shapes as a smart betting option in the VOBIS Gold Heath at Caulfield.