Apprentice Josh Oliver has been rewarded for his recent impressive form with a top book of rides at Eagle Farm including his first for trainer Robert Heathcote.
Oliver has ridden 65 winners since joining Toowoomba trainer Ben Currie from New Zealand last year.
He has six scheduled rides on Saturday including Saluter who has been second in stakes races at his past two starts.
Oliver’s three kilogram claim will reduce the gelding’s weight to 56kg in the Caltex Open (1400m).
“I have been keen to ride more in town and to get rides from Mr Heathcote is obviously a boost,” Oliver said.
Heathcote believes Oliver is more than ready to make his mark in metropolitan racing.
“He is riding very well and would have had his first ride for me on Wednesday with Fortini but he pulled up sore and had to be scratched,” Heathcote said.
“Saluter has been racing very well but he got 59kg and the three kilos off will make a big difference. He deserves a win this campaign.”
Heathcote brought up his 60th metropolitan winner for the season with Five Stud Poker on Wednesday and is second to Tony Gollan on the Brisbane premiership.
