Cambridge trainer Roger James is looking to Australia in the future with his capable staying mare The Tidy Express.
He produced Volksraad’s smart daughter for a stylish first-up victory in Tuesday’s Carbine Club Trophy at Ellerslie and has the Queensland winter carnival already in mind for the lightly-tried six-year-old.
“The long-term plan is the Brisbane Cup,” said James, adding the Gr.3 DHL Counties Cup on November 22 was an upcoming domestic target.
The Tidy Express was making her first appearance on Melbourne Cup day since May and her winning effort from last on the turn didn’t entirely surprise her trainer.
“I said to Vinnie (Colgan) when I legged him up that her forte was going over ground, but that she could go a cheeky race,” James said.
The Tidy Express took advantage when the field fanned out on straightening to finish strongly between runners and down Secrets Only by a neck with Decorah three and a-half lengths further back in third.
She completed a good day for James, who had won the previous event with Tavy.
- NZ Racing Desk
