Dedication behind wheel pays off for Lloyd
Willo Titto has emerged as a JJ Atkins contender after a winning debut at the Gold Coast.
A four-hour round trip to ride Group One-bound filly Willo Titto in a barrier trial has paid off for jockey Jeff Lloyd at the Gold Coast.
Lloyd drove from the Gold Coast to Caloundra two weeks ago to ride Willo Titto and several other horses in trials before being quick to book himself for the filly’s first start on Wednesday.
Willo Titto ($2.40) overcame a bump after the start to beat the favourite Parko ($2.20) by 2-1/4 lengths.
The filly is by former superstar Pierro whose progeny are showing ability over longer distances.
Trainer David Vandyke has the Group One JJ Atkins (1600m) for Willo Titto who had no trouble with the heavy track.
“She is bred to get further than today and to handle wet tracks on both sides of her breeding. I think she is up to better races,” Vandyke said.
Lloyd said Willo Titto had done a good job because she was bumped just after the start.
Don’t Doubt Lara ($9.50) gave comeback jockey Ryan Wiggins his sixth winner since last Friday.
Wiggins injured his back when he returned from riding in Mauritius earlier this year and had 10 weeks away from riding.