Few trainers in Melbourne know their horses better than Tony Vasil.
For that reason the trainer was mystified by the betting drift that preceded the Caulfield win of Veewap.
“I couldn’t believe it, I was wondering what I must have missed,” Vasil said.
Veewap winning the Dream Thoroughbreds Plate at Caulfield - photo by Race Horse Photos Australia
He missed nothing.
Aided by a patient Damien Oliver ride, Veewap defied the lack of betting ring confidence, racing up to his excellent recent form to win the Dream Thoroughbreds Plate (1400m) by three-quarters of a length from Testascana ($13).
Early leader Dusty Star ($5.50 fav) fought on for third a half neck further back.
After opening at $4.80, Veewap eased to a starting quote of $7.
“I ride him every day in his work and I’ve never known him to be in better shape,” Vasil said.
“Even when he’s been in form in the past his coat is always dull, but this time he looks fantastic.
“And his form has been terrific – you didn’t have to be Einstein to think he’d win.”
Veewap benefited from the hot pace set by Dusty Star, but appeared to be in a difficult position at the 400m when third last on the fence.
But Oliver pushed his way off the rail and then took a split between runners at the 150m to put the result beyond doubt.
The betting movements around Veewap were the opposite to those surrounding Menados who had support from $12 in to $8.
The Nigel Blackiston-trained runner had no luck, finishing a close fourth.
