Mornington
Race 4 – Governor King
Jockey – Declan Bates
2000m – Barrier 2
Fiorente gelding Governor King looks to go one better than a brave last start effort when he gets to 2000-metres for the first time at Mornington today. The four-year-old galloper was caught wide the trip at Seymour a fortnight ago, sticking on gamely to hold down second placing when others had every right to go past him late. There should be no wide run today, jockey Declan Bates drawing perfectly in barrier two, able to roll forward in the early parts and settle on or just behind the speed throughout.
Daiquiri looks the only other speed influence in the race in gate three, likely to be sent forward up in distance this afternoon. Two of his three wins have come third-up and he is better suited at this trip and beyond. Each way claims. Lodbrok was doing his best work on the line over 2060-metres at Cranbourne last start, finishing strongly to miss by under a length. The track is currently in the good range which suits, and he should enjoy a soft trail behind runners here. Hardest to beat. Proprietary was okay in that Cranbourne race, but the effort at Sandown over a mile the start prior was better. Two from two at Mornington reads well, each way claims. So too Duke Of Hastings, who wants more ground but is right back in grade.
Governor King was very good on a dry surface last start, but if the rain does arrive in time that can only be positive for his chances. He’ll get every chance from up on speed today and there’s nothing to suggest he won’t see out a strong 2000-metres at this point if his preparation. Strong claims.
Currently, Governor King is a $4.50 chance in the market.