THE TOORAK HANDICAP – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
HISTORY: First run in 1881 when won by Josephine. Before 1972 run over one mile (1600m) except for 1931-35 inclusive when run over 8-1/2 furlongs (1700m) and in 1891 when run over nine furlongs (1800m). Between 1940-43 run at Flemington. Group One since 1979
NOTABLE WINNERS: More Joyous (2010), Leilani (1974), Gunsynd (1971), Tobin Bronze (1967), Galilee (1966), The Trump (1937)
TALKING POINTS:
* Highest metric weight carried to victory: 58kg – All Shot (1972), More Joyous (2010), King Mufhasa (2011)
* In 1966 Galilee became only horse to win Toorak-Melbourne Cup in same year. A year later Tobin Bronze became only galloper to win Toorak-Cox Plate double in same year
* Five horses have won back-to-back Tooraks: Solzhenitsyn (2012-13); Umrum (1999-2000), Nicopolis (1963-64), Desert Breeze (1952-53) and Saxony (1948-49)
* Race has produced two dead-heats for first – Journal and Epigram in 1935 and Ena and El Golea three years later
RACE ANALYSIS
PATTERN: Solicit drawn wide but should roll forward and assume lead with Trust In A Gust also to find prominent position. Commanding Jewel expected to be ridden quietly. Craig Williams has job of trying to slot in on Arabian Gold.
FANCIED RUNNERS: Arabian Gold impressive in season return in Sydney and puts Cox Plate aspirations on show.
Trust In A Gust scored determined Rupert Clarke Stakes win but up in weight. Bull Point closed nicely in Rupert Clarke.
BEST OF THE OUTSIDERS: Speediness knocking on door for Group One win. Akavoroun won only start at mile, chasing down The Cleaner at Flemington. Cox Plate hope Guest Of Honour an interesting runner.
