Grand opportunity
OWNER Bill Cockram says he couldn’t be happier with Jameka heading into tomorrow’s Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington.
The star four-year-old can deliver the local breeder and trainer Ciaron Maher some Grand Final weekend chocolates as she eyes off the Caulfield Cup.
Jameka heads into tomorrow’s 2000m test as a $5.50 chance, second favourite behind Sydney star Hartnell.
“She is in this race right up to her ears. Obviously it is a very strong race, it’s Group 1 leading up to a Caulfield Cup,” Cockram said.
“She handles the wet going, she has progressed further in her fitness. She is probably getting to her peak now.
“So the next few runs she will be at her best. She will be right there.”
Jockey Nick Hall will ride Jameka from barrier seven.
“We were hoping for a barrier between one and five, so seven is fine. If she jumps well she can find herself in most positions,” Cockram said.
“We are very lucky that she is versatile (in where she can settle in the run).”
Hall rode Jameka to a brilliant win in the Group 3 Naturalism last start. It was a victory that saw her rocket into $6 second favourite for the Caulfield Cup.
“If she wins (tomorrow), I’d say she will be favourite for the Caulfield Cup, which will be pretty exciting,” Cockram said.
Hall, who replaced Craig Williams last start, has managed to keep the ride on Jameka.
“Nick has ridden a lot for me in the past. We have a really good relationship,” Cockram said.
“I’ve spoken to him a few times. Obviously I leave it up to the stable to make those final decision, but Ciaron opted to keep Nick on.
“I think they (Jameka and Hall) are a good mix. He is quite a strong- willed person and some horses respond well to that.
“I think the vibes he gives off she picks up on and they are a good team. He has been riding her track work quite a bit.”
Cockram said he couldn’t wait to see the 2015 VRC Oaks winner step out in another Group 1 race.
“It doesn’t matter how long you are in racing for, these are the big days and they are always special. You never, ever take it for granted,”
“You don’t have horses like Jameka every day. You strive to, but it’s just not possible at the end of the day to breed or buy horses as good as her.”