Warrnambool
Race 8 – Governor King
Jockey – John Allen
2000m – Barrier 1
Six-year-old galloper Governor King looks to bounce back when he returns to heavy ground at Warrnambool this afternoon. The gelded son of Fiorente was a strong winner at Seymour two starts back before plain at his latest, drifting back and never a factor at the same track a fortnight ago. Jockey John Allen sticks on today and can be positive from the inside alley, looking to land on or just behind the speed heading into the back.
Speed comes from the centre with Shamex looking to find the front from gate five, while expect Bellonado to roll across from out wider and find a forward position on settling. A few with claims. Bellonado was a last start winner at this track/trip in this grade and will relish the heavy going today. Drawn a little awkwardly but shapes as one of the main chances. Shamex comes back in grade following a solid effort at Murtoa and gets in well after the 3kg apprentice claim. Will take catching if she controls things from the front. Sir Rockford is another dropping in class, while Astradeel’s best is good enough to be right in this. Both with each way claims.
Governor King draws favourably on the inside, just needing to step cleanly to hold a forward position throughout. A similar performance to his win two starts back is good enough to win this. Strong claims on that basis.
Currently, Governor King is a $5 chance in the market.