A timely return to winning form by Big Money in the Group Three George Moore Stakes has earned him an extended summer campaign.
Big Money bounced back from two defeats during the spring carnival in Melbourne to win the Moore and book a start in the Listed Lough Neagh Stakes (1350m) at Doomben on December 20.
Big Money – Robert Thompson
Northam is keen to run Big Money in the Lough Neagh for two reasons.
“It’s worth good money and I also want to run him with the view of seeing how he handles the 1350 metres looking further ahead to the winter carnival,” he said.
“The Doomben 10,000 and the Stradbroke would be nice races for him next winter if he shows us he can handle a bit further than 1200 metres.”
Northam was especially keen for Big Money to win the Moore and provide a much-needed boost for his owner Phil Gunter who has been ill in hospital.
“It would have been nice to win on Derby Day at Flemington for Phil but this will perk him up a lot,” he said.
Ridden by Robert Thompson, Big Money, the $4.20 favourite, scored by 1-1/4 lengths from Someday ($7) with Cape Kidnappers ($4.80) a long neck away third.
Thompson praised Big Money’s courage after being challenged strongly by Cape Kidnappers in the straight.
“He’s no superstar but he’s a real little trier and when it came to the crunch in the straight he fought on like a bulldog,” Thompson said.
Jockey Tim Bell, who rode Someday, is looking forward to a rematch with Big Money in the Lough Neagh.
“Unfortunately we met a very smart horse today but stepping up to 1350 metres next time will be ideal for my horse,” Bell said.
“He was gallant in defeat and I’m looking forward to turning the tables next time.”
Damian Browne was full of praise for the effort of Cape Kidnappers at his first start since the winter carnival.
“He travelled well and felt really good through the race so I’m expecting he’ll take a heap of improvement from the run,” he said.
