Ricky Maund’s two runners raced in the two legs of today’s Mornington’s Daily Double. They both saluted.
Gold Energy had not won for more than a year, and seemed to have lost his zest for competition. Not doubting the gelding’s ability, Ricky set about getting Gold Energy’s mind back on the job. Ricky changed the bay’s training routine, he put him over some jumps and even switched to a left handed hoop. The effort paid dividends.
The hoop was none other than Craig Newitt. From the back of the field, Craig and the gelding masterly picked their way through the field. Gold Energy ran with a revitalised interest. Race favourite Yavanna had missed the kick and raced wide throughout. The Redoute’s Choice mare flew home – but the race was over. Gold Energy had won the first leg of the daily double by just under half a length.
Ricky had accepted with Bedouin Express in the second leg of the daily double, the last for the day, over 1500 metres. Danny Nikolic, who had partnered Bedouin Express at his win at Geelong, was on board. Bedouin did not muster early speed, but Danny was unflustered. Three wide, he allowed the gelding to work into the race and had him ideally positioned at the turn. Bedouin Express pounced. Well fancied runner Medal Day emerged as a late threat, but Bedouin Express, despite being allotted top weight with 59 kilograms, was strong on the line. He won by a length and a half.
Bedouin Express, by Desert King is from Lauriston Success Express broodmare, Gal Express. It was his fifth win and raised his career earnings to more
than $70,000.
The double was Ricky Maund’s eighth and ninth for the season, lifting his winning strike rate to 30% for the season.
