A breakthrough victory might be the turning point for the ever-consistent Grandini at Bathurst on Thursday.
The 4YO was a 10-start maiden, boasting five minor placings, when heading to Dubbo on June 6, before finishing strongly to win the $50,000 Super Maiden Plate (1300m) for apprentice jockey, Leeshelle Small.
Trained by Rodney Northam, the Toronado mare had been frustratingly close to a win in races at Scone, Narromine and Tamworth, but everything came together at Dubbo for a well-deserved victory.
At Bathurst, the Scone-trained Grandini finds a winnable Class One Handicap (1400m), which appears to be a perfect stepping stone for a mare that has some upside.
An awkward draw (gate 9) is a concern, but connections have city hoop Reece Jones jumping in the saddle.
On what should be a good day’s racing, Bathurst hosts a seven-race program, with the first race jumping at 12.55pm.
Bathurst Tips – June 19
Race 1: #1 Bosco
Race 2: #2 Vis I Do
Race 3: #3 Marvel Man
Race 4: #3 Cuesta
Race 5: #10 Chebici
Race 6: #3 Navios
Race 7: #4 Grandini
Track conditions
Rail Position: +2m 1200m-350m, Cutaway
Track Type: Turf
Track Condition: Soft 6
Weather: Fine:
Acceptances: 75
