Loch Oir remains unbeaten with Hong Kong on the horizon
LOCH Oir remained a perfect two-from-two when winning the Murray Cox Handicap at Flemington and now the cheap sales purchase could be heading offshore.
The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding used its small frame to its advantage when it squeezed along the inside of runners to record an impressive victory with Craig Williams in the saddle.
“I had no option (than) to go around. It was either that or be unlucky,” Williams said.
“It felt like I was either going to get the run and if he was strong enough he’ll win, but if he doesn’t get the run, he’d be unlucky.
“He’s only a small horse than goodness so he was able to take it.”
Williams stated that its fighting qualities helped keep its unbeaten record in tact and it should have a good future.
“He’s very competitive and very determined and once he did get the gap, he had to really show his fighting spirit and it’s good that he has got one of those,” Williams said.
“He’s got a good upside to him.”
The $20,000 yearling sales purchase could well continue racing in Hong Kong if the offers come. Ben Connolly, representing trainer Ciaron Maher, said they hoped it would sell to Hong Kong so its future is still unknown.
If it continues to race throughout the winter in Australia, Craig Williams doesn’t think the track conditions will be any problem.
“He’s had two starts for two wins and that was an improving track today after his first-up win on the heavy,” he said.
“I love his attitude.”
Odeon ($14 at Crownbet) finished in second place with jockey Andrew Mallyon in the saddle and he’s keen to stick with the improving stayer.
“He’s taken good improvement from his first start to today so there’s good upside to him,” Mallyon said.
“He’s bred to get ground and that will be his go and he likes soft ground too. Hopefully, there’s another win in him awhile the tracks are still wet.”