WAGING WAR AT GEELONG

War Machine makes his debut for us at Geelong today.

Declan Bates will ride the son of Harry Angel in the first race over 1230 metres where nine of his rivals are also on debut.

With 90% of the field also on debut Mike Moroney said it is a tricky race to assess.

“It’s difficult to get a feel for the race with no exposed form as such but I’m happy with our horse,” Mike said.

“He’s come back as a gelding and shown us ability at home and his jumpout was pleasing without him being fully tested.

“He’s drawn well which is a help. The only horse to have raced has city form so we shall just have to see. Our horse is ready to go the races and I’m expecting him to run well so it will be interesting to see how he shapes up.”

Exzello is our other runner in the eighth race over 2447 metres with Declan Bates also aboard.

“He’s hard fit and his last two starts have been solid over this distance,” Mike said.

“He’s down a touch in grade today from last start where he made steady headway over the final stages and in what looks a pretty even contest today he is there with an each-way chance.”