Ascot hoodoo no worry for Nerodio

Trainer Stephanie Bakranich says Nerodio will be at his best and gives the seven-year-old a great chance to end an Ascot hoodoo on Saturday.

Nerodio has performed best at Belmont Park, greeting the judge 11 times, but despite going close, landing success at Ascot has been elusive.

The Playing God gelding has placed six times from seven starts at Perth’s premier track, including a close second to classy mare Miss Conteki last year.

It’s a statistic that doesn’t particularly faze Bakranich and she’s confident he can overcome it when returning in the Furphy R.S.Crawford Stakes (1000m).

“He’s in great order and as good as he’s ever been,” Bakranich said on Tabradio.

“He’s had a nice freshen up after Belmont and I’ve just haven’t been able to crack one at Ascot yet.

“He’s had seven runs at Ascot for six placings, so he runs well there, he just hasn’t won.

“Hopefully, tomorrow (Saturday) is his day.”

Nerodio is coming off a top Belmont season, claiming dual Listed wins in the Beaufine (1000m) and Belmont Newmarket (1200m).

Effective when fresh, he races first up since finishing runner up to Resortman in the Idyllic Prince Stakes (1300m) in August.

With the Crawford Stakes expected to be loaded with pace, Nerodio has drawn ideally in barrier three for Laqdar Ramoly.

“He’ll definitely be on speed, I’m hoping he’ll be one pair back,” Bakranich said.

“I said to Lucky (Ramoly) during the week he needs to be on the speed because the straight (Ascot) not being as long.

“We need to be right there with them all and I’m sure that’s where he will land, he jumps well.”

Tabtouch currently rate Nerodio an $11 chance.

Miss Conteki, one of four starters for Simon Miller, the $3.90 favourite.