Famechon Tackles VRC Derby

Melbourne’s biggest race week of the year is upon us and everyone at Ballymore is excited about being a part of the Group One action with runners in not only the Melbourne Cup but the VRC Derby as well.

Of course Ballymore have already won both races – the Melbourne Cup with Brew and the VRC Derby with Monaco Consul – and we are keen to be in the winner’s circle again!

But first our Cup Week action begins at Moonee Valley on Friday night where we saddle up Tempest Rock in the 1600m maiden.

A horse we have always had a bit of time for, the lightly raced son of Rock Of Gibraltar pleased us with his first run – a solid third at Echuca – and he has progressed nicely since.

“He was a bit inconsistent last time in,” Moroney admitted, “but he is a stronger horse now and hopefully he can put a few good runs together – we have always liked him.”

To Headquarters on Saturday where our Derby hope is the talented Famechon who is attempting to emulate Redding and Fire Oak by breaking his maiden in the Derby.

Unfortunately conditions may not be ideal for the son of Haradasun with Melbourne’s spring warming up over the past couple of days.

“A bit of rain really would’ve helped him,” Moroney said – “we are a bit worried that the track will be too firm for him.”

Looming up at the turn to win the Norman Robinson last time out, Famechon could not let down on that track and it looks like similar conditions will prevail this weekend.

“He was going to win that race so it was a bit disappointing,” Moroney said – adding that he does however have plenty of time for Famechon who was earmarked as a Derby prospect early on.

Drawn nicely in barrier four, Famechon has the services of regular rider Dwayne Dunn.

Earlier in the day we saddle up two runners in the Gr.3 Lexus Stakes – a race Brew won enroute to his Melbourne Cup victory in 2000.

Both Araldo and Garud are in good shape heading to the race and Moroney is confident of bold showings from both.

“Araldo is going really well,” he enthused – “terrific in fact.”

“We can’t fault him and he has a nice draw (six) and Glen Boss aboard – it looks a nice race for him.”

Garud meanwhile is fourth up and “up to his right distance” and he too has fared well in the barrier draw – due to jump from the inside gate for Craig Williams.

“He could prove the hardest horse for Araldo to beat,” Moroney said.

We wish everyone the very best for VRC Derby Day and look forward to seeing you at our Annual Owners Day on Monday!