Trainer Brian Mcgrath is comfortable with his decision to keep D’Jumbuck fresh for an attempt at a second win on the Flemington straight course.
D’Jumbuck provided McGrath with his maiden Flemington victory when successful on January 14 and returns to the course to contest the World Pool Handicap (1200m) on Saturday.
McGrath had Saturday’s benchmark 84 contest in mind for D’Jumbuck right from the time he crossed the line five weeks ago. Check the odds at swiftbet.com.au
“This has been the plan since he won last time down the straight in a benchmark 78 over 1200 metres,” McGrath said.
“We like the idea of keeping him fresh. It’s been five weeks since that win.
“He seems to enjoy a bit of room and being able to get into his own rhythm. It was something that he ticked off last time in his first try down the straight.
“I thought he found another level.”
D’Jumbuck was afforded sometime in the paddock to recover from his maiden Flemington win.
“It was a very hot day and he felt the run,” McGrath said.
“The week after, he had a very easy week and we’ve taken him to the beach, just to try and keep him fresh for this race.
“Hopefully it works.”
The form from that victory has been confirmed since with runner-up Jungle Jim going on to score at Sale at his next start while third-placed Belsielle went on to claim a Group 3 race in Hobart.
McGrath hopes Jungle Jim will again set a solid temple for D’Jumbuck to follow.
“I would like a good pace, I think that would be a good result,” McGrath said.
“I think that’s the way Jungle Jim likes to do it and if not, we may find our own rhythm in front.
“Like we did from Sandown to Flemington, we kept him fresh and gave with a jump-out in between.
“Blake (Shinn) came out on Monday and was happy with him, so hopefully it’s a winning formula.”