Trainer Michael Morrison is looking for an improved showing from Venom Rush at Ipswich on Thursday, following a disappointing performance at Eagle Farm.
The three-year-old colt finished last of 17 in the Listed Queensland Day Stakes over 1200m on June 6. Although the stable had hoped for a better result, and the horse was a $41 chance, Morrison sees the run as a stepping stone back to Class 1 company in the Barrier Reef Pools Handicap over the same distance.
“I’m more than certain he’s got a good race in him,” stated Morrison.
“We thought we would be more competitive in that race but if you have a quick squiz at the replay, we’re three-wide early and then from that point I think the white towel was thrown up.”
“So he pulled up from that really well considering that he’s pretty much gone around for a track gallop.”
“He was beaten 7.5-lengths in a listed race so I wouldn’t be using that run as an indicator.”
Acquired by Morrison for $1,500 in 2024, Venom Rush has earned more than $25,000 from one win and two placings in seven starts, making prize money a significant consideration.
“The barrier gods haven’t been overly kind to us but we’ll just have to go back on him and ride him for luck,” Morrison added, referring to barrier 15.
According to Adam Blencowe, Senior Handicapper at Racing and Sports, horses coming from behind have a greater chance of winning at Ipswich than many might perceive.
“(But) most races there are run at a fairly genuine tempo,” Morrison agreed. “I think that gives most horses their chance. You’ve just got to be careful not to swoop four or five wide but instead try and cut the corner and look for some room when you level up.”
Morrisson has secured the services of jockey Brandon Lerena, a cousin to South African jockey Gavin Lerena. Lerena has a 13% win rate and 32.6% placing rate with Morrison, and his Ipswich record stands at 14.5% winners and nearly 40% placings.
“He’s probably my number one jockey,” Morrison commented. “He knows the horse inside out and I think he’s the sort of rider who is capable of getting a horse to settle nicely.”
“Brandon always gives the 100% and he’s going to be one you want on, for sure.”
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