Craig William and Darren Smith were both extremely pleased with the work of Atomic Force as the dual Gr1 winner went through his paces reacquainting himself with the Moonee Valley layout prior to what is expected to be his first up run in Melbourne for the spring.
The horse is spot on for the event however punters should be aware that connections are not committed to racing here on Saturday.
In the early light Atomic Force & Craig Williams get acquainted
Last time Atomic Force was in Melbourne he drew “the visitors draw each time” and a similar marble on Saturday would certainly sway connections into thinking about scratching and waiting for the bigger roomier Caulfield circuit 7 days later in The Heath Stakes (Slickpix) - the race he won last year.
However a favourable draw will all but assure Tommy will kick off at Moonee Valley.
He appears well treated at the weights despite carrying top weight of 60.0kgs. Being Set Weights and Penalties the handicapper can only give him a maximum of 4.0kgs over the set weight of 56.0kgs for the boys and 54.0kgs for the mares.
Noted for handy first up form and his like of rain affected ground, whatever conditions they serve up on Saturday will not be a concern, only the barrier.
Craig Williams was delighted in the appearance and fitness of Atomic Force leading into Moonee Valley.
Atomic Force has never been known as a flash track worker, so on a Slow 7 at Moonee Valley this morning, Craig was asked to put him through his paces without worrying about the clock, just go through his gears to find out what he had underneath.
Craig returned and reported “we have a very happy horse and Tommy was more forward than he had anticipated. He was very clean winded and about 75% / 80% fit (perfect for where we need to be at this stage) and it was a very encouraging gallop.”
He’s ready to go!
Courtesy of the Moonee Valley Racing Club they have put up the times of this morning’s gallops and vision of the trackwork on you tube. You can check it out here:
Craig Williams later told Sky Channels Andrew Bensley in a post work interview:
“Encouraging gallop at the Valley. Atomic Force wasn't out to break the clock in the gallop but the horse is a very happy one. He’s settled right into Melbourne. Atomic Force is 75/80% fit” for Saturday's Carlyon Stakes at Moonee Valley.
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