It has certainly been a whirlwind past few months for kiwi trainer Bjorn Baker. When he first arrived in Australia a couple of years back, he couldn’t buy a winner. But thanks to gun three year old It’s A Dundeel and staying revelation Cantonese, people are standing up and taking notice of the Warwick Farm based trainer.
Cantonese is in the paddock after being defeated in the Perth Cup (2400m) on Tuesday while It’s A Dundeel is back and roaring to go, according to Baker.
Bjorn Baker trained It's A Dundeel - Photo by Steve Hart
“Cantonese is off for a spell with the intention of a possible Winter campaign in Brisbane,” He said.
“Hopefully the sun is shining by the time we get there.”
And what about his star youngster?
“It’s A Dundeel is in New Zealand with my father,” Baker told justhorseracing.
“From all reports he has returned well and will be aimed towards the Australian Derby (2400m).”
“He is bigger and stronger now, so I expect improvement heading into the Autumn.”
But before this all happens, he will take a strong two pronged attack to his home track on Saturday, starting off with Fuming in the Australian Turf Club Handicap (1400m).
“I thought he ran well in the Wyong Magic Millions,” He said.
“I expect Jenny (Duggan) to have him sitting handy to the pace.”
“I want to take him through his grades, but if he does win doing handstands, then we might consider the Magic Millions up north next week.”
His other runner for the day is the unbeaten juvenile Twilight Royale, who lines up in the Tab Number One Club Plate (1000m) after winning over this track and distance on debut in the Inglis Nursery.
“She has pulled up well since then,” Baker said.
“I’d like her to sit in the same spot as she was on debut- behind the speed, drop the bit and pick up when asked for the effort.”
“She is a push-button filly and her racing manners are nearly as good as my wives.”
“I will say she worked very well last Saturday and if she performs well again this weekend, then we’ll definitely consider the Inglis race at Mornington in February.”
Which one should punters back with confidence on Saturday?
“Twilight Royale.”
