Arguably returning to racing in career-best form this preparation, leading Queensland-based trainer Tony Gollan is confident classy four-year-old Whiskey Allround is a leading chance for success in Saturday’s Listed Lough Neagh Stakes (1350m) at Doomben Racecourse.
Whiskey Allround has been confirmed for Saturday’s Listed Lough Neagh Stakes at Doomben. Photo: Daniel Costello
Securing six race wins and a further three minor places over just 15 competitive starts so far, Whiskey Allround is yet to taste anything but success over three starts this time in; taking out each of the Movie HQ Brassal Handicap (1000m), Brothers Rugby Club BM90 (1200m) and David Bow Memorial Plate (1200m) with relative ease.
Understandably pleased with the form displayed and results secured by the son of All Bar One this season, Gollan told Racing Ahead he is expecting another polished performance from barrier 2 in the Lough Neagh Stakes.
“He’s progressed really well,” Gollan said.
“He’s had a great preparation – his first-up win was quite ugly, but he got the job done and he’s gained confidence from that.
“He’s now won three straight and his last performance was his best and he’s shown us no signs of training off. He’s in a good head space the horse.
“We’re happy with him heading towards the race on Saturday.”
A standout performer for Gollan through his maiden racing preparation, Whiskey Allround secured a memorable second place finish behind talented sprinter Sweet Idea in the Group 2 Silver Slipper (1100m) in early 2013, but was unable to make much of an impact over two preparations as a three-year-old.
“I think he’s just getting to where we thought he would get to,” Gollan added.
“He had the score on the board as a two-year-old; came out and won three straight and next prep he got beaten half a head by Sweet Idea in the Silver Slipper so he always had the ability.
“For one reason or another his three-year-old season was a complete forget.
“As a four-year-old gelding he’s really doing the job.”
Confirmed amongst a talented field of 12 for Saturday’s Queensland feature, Whiskey Allround has been charged with carrying just 54kgs in the Lough Neagh Stakes and has been confirmed to be partnered by in-form jockey Tim Bell.
