The perfect birthday gift for Geraldton horseman Allan Hughes on Saturday is a Kenyluck victory in the Own The Dream 2022 Handicap (1200m) at Ascot.
After watching him run out of his skin at Ascot two weeks ago, Hughes is optimistic the six-year-old can repeat the performance and go one better.
Following a hatrick of wins on his home track at Geraldton, Kenyluck came to town and lost no admirers when beaten a nose by Written Matter.
Racing outside the speedy Ziebell after crossing from a wide draw, Kenyluck hit the front 100m out and was only gunned down in the shadows of the post.
While disappointed he couldn’t hold on, Hughes was buoyed by the run and says he goes into Saturday’s encounter with more confidence than he did a fortnight ago.
“That was a career-best run to my eye,” Hughes told The Races WA.
“I was hoping he would be able to hold his own and he did.
“With his ratings he’s going to have to get used to the company.
“Holding form and the times his running says he will be around the mark.
“It’s given me a lot more confidence and hope.
“He’s come back this preparation bigger and better.
“He’s matured and is totally different.
“If he can finish in the first four it will be a great birthday gift.
“The $40,000 prizemoney would be fantastic.”
The barrier gods have again not been kind to Kenyluck. In a field of 12 starters, he has drawn gate ten.
Apprentice Holly Watson retains the ride.
“Wide draws are something we are used to with Kenyluck,” says Hughes.
“He’ll go forward and lead or sit outside of the leader.
“It doesn’t worry me if they go at a killer pace.
“He can do it from both ends and can kick in the straight.”
Kenyluck opened at $10 but in current Tabtouch betting he’s drifted to $12.
His last-start conqueror Written Matter the big firmer, $6.50 into $4.40 favouritism.
Gemma’s Son and Resortman are next at $5 with Flying Missile $7 and The Spruiker $9.
Hughes says after Saturday Kenyluck will target Geraldton’s Batavia Sprint (1300m) in January.
