Warrnambool-trained sprinter Oliveanotherday will get a look at the Flemington straight as the gelding’s campaign begins to take shape.
Oliveanotherday has strung together five wins on the trot with his next assignment being the Group 2 Bobbie Lewis Quality (1200m) on Saturday.
The Bobbie Lewis gives Oliveanotherday an important look down the Flemington straight for a potential assignment during the Melbourne Cup Carnival, but more importantly will serve to get the sprinter in peak condition for the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on September 26.
Successful in the Listed Wangoom Handicap (1200m) at Warrnambool in May to end his last campaign, Oliveanotherday resumed to take out the Group 3 The Heath (1100m) at Caulfield on August 29.
Oliveanotherday had to push clear that day but showed a good turn of foot to continue his winning streak.
Trainer Tom Dabernig, who almost landed his first Group 1 since his shift to Warrnambool after departing Lindsay Park with Cavalry Girl in the Moir Stakes last Saturday, said the first-up win of Oliveanotherday was not as tough as expected and had forced his hand into giving Oliveanotherday another start before the Manikato.
The Manikato Stakes has been an early target for the sprinter with the race this year at Caulfield instead of Moonee Valley.
“He pulled up well and the one benefit from being held-up first-up, it wasn’t a hard run,” Dabernig said.
“I thought if we went straight to the Manikato, it could be a week too long, plus I’m keen to try him down the straight at Flemington before Cup week and this is the ideal time.
“I didn’t want to go to the Manikato a little bit fresh, so at least this way it’s two weeks, two weeks, pretty simple, and hopefully this run will then bring him to his top.
“The 1200 metres, at Caulfield, he’s proven there, so it’s a target.”
Dabernig said there had been some interest from slot holders for The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 17 prior to and post Oliveanotherday’s first-up win.
“At this stage, the owner is saying ‘let’s reassess after this next start’,” Dabernig said.
“He’s playing his cards close to his chest which is fine by me.
“The Manikato is three weeks before The Everest, plus there is the travel, so it’s doable, if that’s the way we decide to go.”
