Just Fine’s form has wavered since his initial Australian hat-trick of dominant wins.
Co-trainer Adrian Bott gets the impression the sparingly raced eight-year-old is about to rewind to peak condition this autumn.
Tulloch Lodge enters Just Fine, Hoo Ya Mal, and previous season’s Brisbane Cup winner Campaldino into Rosehill’s Group 3 Parramatta Cup (1900m) this Saturday, as Bott reminds punters to respect his chances.
“I feel he’s back to where we had him originally,” Bott said.
“His last couple of trials have been encouraging. We’re pleased with him at home and in his work.
“Maybe out of our three, he seems the most forward, and the most suited by the race. Hopefully he can show that on his return.”
The Mornington Cup (2400m) in April marked Just Fine’s last run, well beaten, with Hoo Ya Mal likewise fresh off a long break.
With a 2022 English Derby second placing, Hoo Ya Mal’s standout Australian run was Group 2 Hill Stakes (1900m) runner-up status a year on, though Bott holds faith in the gelding’s ability.
“The talent is there, but he’s a horse that does need a lot to go his way in the run,” he said.
“I want to see something from him first, but he’s got the potential to be very competitive in these types of races.”
First-up post his breakthrough Brisbane Cup (3200m) victory in June, ex-Kiwi Campaldino was trialled for spring but lacked sharpness.
Opting for extended rest, his connections eye autumn with the Sydney Cup (3200m) in view.
“He showed enough potential for us to pursue him as a tried prospect out of New Zealand, and he went from strength to strength last campaign when he went through his grades nicely and finished up with a very good win in the Brisbane Cup,” Bott said.
“We might have to be a bit more negative from that draw, which will make the task more difficult for him, but he’s got a nice campaign ahead.”
Out in gate 14 of 14, Campaldino topped Tulloch Lodge betting at $7.50 midweek, Just Fine next at $9.50, Hoo Ya Mal $16.
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