Bowman weighing up Tiberian’s Cup potential
JOCKEY Hugh Bowman’s Melbourne Cup conundrum could become clearer tomorrow when he tests Frenchtrained Tiberian in a gallop at Werribee.
Already in demand to ride fellow imports Red Cardinal and Marmelo, Bowman will assess the Prix Kergorlay winner at the quarantine centre.
Bowman also has the option of partnering one of owner Lloyd Williams’ entrants in next month’s Cup.
He was impressed with the feel Red Cardinal gave him and it was similar with Marmelo on Saturday.
“Just let him go through the motions,” Bowman said of Marmelo.
“He’s a big, strong horse and he was in a very good mood, which means he’s obviously settled in well which is very important.
“He wasn’t out to do a great deal. I was more there to get a feel for his temperament and the way he moved.”
Asked to compare the two, Bowman said: “Very similar types of horses.”
He said having to make the choice between four quality Cup rides was “a bit like putting a hand in the hut and hoping you pick the right number”.
“Once I’ve ridden the three horses … I’ll know more,” Bowman said.
Williams has bolstered an already powerful spring cups arsenal by snaring the highly rated Johannes Vermeer.
The Aidan O’Brien-trained import will race Williams’ ownership for the first time in Saturday’s Caulfield Stakes.