Paul Hammersley is determined to keep striking while the iron is hot on the back of his Magic Millions Guineas success last weekend.
Hammersley scored aboard Punch On in the $1 million feature at the Gold Coast and has already noticed the impact that victory could have on his career as he prepares for Saturday’s Eagle Farm meeting.
“After last week the phone was ringing,” the 27-year-old jockey said.
“I got to pick and choose between a couple of them and end up on some nice chances.
“It’s definitely a good opportunity for me, especially with the media attention that it (winning the Magic Millions Guineas) brings. You’re in the front of people’s minds when they are looking for a rider.”
Hammersley has a full book of eight rides at Eagle Farm including the Trevor Bailey-trained Purettan in the Sequalo @ Lyndhurst Open Handicap (1200m).
“I’ve got to keep my form going now otherwise in a month’s time you can be back at square one,” he said.
“Hopefully things can snowball from here, especially with the winter carnival only a few months away.”
Hammersley won on Purettan over 1200m at Doomben at the end of his last preparation and was aboard again when the gelding resumed with a third over 1200m at Doomben on December 31.
“I think he’s probably my best chance on Saturday,” he said.
“He’s drawn well (in barrier four) and drops in weight (to 54.5kg) after carrying 58 last start. He’s a horse that does go well on his day.”
Purettan is the $4.50 second favourite on TAB Sportsbet behind Reilly Blue at $3.
His other rides include the Robert Heathcote-trained Marked who is the early favourite in the www.brc.com.au Plate (1800m).
“I’ve won on him twice before, he’s drawn well in barrier one and it looks like he’ll get the trip,” Hammersley said.
“Hopefully we don’t get any more rain because he’s probably not well suited by a wet track.”
Hammersley has ridden 20 metropolitan winners so far this season to be equal fifth in the Brisbane premiership and a top five finish is his goal.
He is also keen to put himself in a position to be in contention for Group One success when the winter carnival rolls around.
Hammersley won the Group One Queensland Oaks on Mon Mekki as an apprentice in 2002.
“I’d really like to ride another Group One, it’s coming up to 10 years since the first one,” he said.
AAP TURF
