The sounds of silence might make the timing just right for The Western Front to get the Willy Wonka effect into this year’s Melbourne Cup.
The Andrew Ramsden Stakes, which carries a golden ticket to Australia’s biggest race at Flemington next Saturday, and The Western Front arrives looking for a hat-trick of wins after a significant gear change.
“It is a great opportunity with a horse that we are just working out and is in form,” trainer Ben Hayes said. “It is a bit easier this time of year, but if you can get a ticket into the Melbourne Cup, it’s every owner’s dream.
“He has been a tricky horse to work out, but he certainly stays, and since we put a hood on him, it made a big difference.”
The Western Front had always hinted at being a good stayer with four wins before he donned the earmuffs in April. Since they have been on he has extended out to 2400m and beyond for wins at Caulfield and Flemington, where he has been more focused and outstayed his rivals.
The win at Flemington came somewhat poignantly on ANZAC Day.
“He had to win on that day, given his name. I think he showed that day what the hood has done for him,” Hayes said.
“He works in earmuffs at home all the time, and they have made him even better on raceday.
“He is one of only two horses we race in earmuffs. Here to Shock is the other one and he has won a Group 1. They are similar in that they are thinkers without them.
“I think the hood makes him focus and brings the best out of him, and there is more to come.
“The extra trip will not be a problem for him.
“We have got him right at the right time and if you win this race, it makes it clear where you are heading.”
