Go Wandji set for maiden Open Handicap chance at Doomben

By Glenn Davis

The Go Wandji steam train looks set to roll on for another win at Doomben on Saturday.

Go Wandji is favoured to mark his Open Handicap debut with his ninth win, when he lines up for his 12th start over 1350 metres.

Trainer Tom Dougall is wary of his star sprinter taking on Open level sprinters for the first time.

“It’s always hard to win in open company but this looks a nice race for him to make his open company debut,” Dougall said.

“He’s gradually improving with every run, but he’s still learning his craft.

“But, I’d say he’s close to his peak now.”

Go Wandji will carry the minimum 54kgs against seasoned sprinters and will again be ridden by multiple Group 1 winning jockey Larry Cassidy, who has been on a strict diet in recent weeks.

“He carried 60kgs when he won last time and he’ll need every kilo he can get off the others at his first open company start,” Dougall said.

“Most of his opposition have been around a long time so you’ve got to be wary of them.”

Dougall confirmed Go Wandji would continue to race on up to the Queensland Summer Racing Carnival but will spell during the hotter months to prepare for next year’s winter campaign. 

A field of nine have accepted for the Open Handicap, including dual acceptors Tumbler Ridge and Sir Rocket, who also are entered for the Class 6 Plate over the same distance.

Trainer Rob Heathcote has decided to dodge a clash with Go Wandji and has booked Tegan Harrison for Sir Rocket in the Class 6 Plate.

However, the training partnership of Steven O'Dea and Matthew Hoysted is yet to decide whether to take up the challenge against the Toowoomba sprinter.

It originally favoured starting in the Class 6 Plate with Tumbler Ridge, who is being aimed at the Doomben Mile on September 10.

“He’s better suited in the Class 6 Plate and we only threw in a nomination for the Open in case he drew badly,” Hoysted said.

“Go Wandji looks to be pretty good and is a serious race horse.”

Tumbler Ridge has started 24 times for five wins and six placings and is coming of a last start fifth to Goldsborough in a 1200 metre Class 6 race at Doomben  on July 9.

“We’re happy with him as he heads to the Doomben Mile in a few weeks and he’s ticking over well and had a good jump out on Tuesday,” Hoysted said.

“He’ll race well whichever race he starts in.”