After a string of placings, Guido proved the superior stayer in testing conditions at Bendigo.
Guido’s racing career so far has been one of perseverance, his first two starts on the polytrack were below expectation, yet Freedman had confidence in the horse and his training method to improve sharply when stepping out in distance.
Freedman elected to up the workload for Guido before his third start at Echuca and with the addition of blinkers, Guido caught the eye of many punters and looked ready to peak out to the 2400m trip. Freedman said post-race “He’s had a smooth campaign, we just needed to build his fitness, get some weight off and get him out in distance. It was fantastic to get the result today.”
A tactical ride by Tahlia Hope ensured the son of Jakkalberry had every possible chance in running. “We planned to roll forward and make it hard for the favourite who had drawn wide.” Once the favourite eventually crossed to lead, Guido had the perfect run-in transit. As the pace increased at the 800m Guido never looked like getting beat, showcasing his staying talent and leaving his rivals in his wake to an eased down 5.5length victory.
It was a pleasing to get a victory for our great partners in OTI Racing and we hope to see Guido back in the winner’s circle as he rises through his grades.
