Trainer Mick Price has been pleased with the form and class displayed by veteran Eximius this time and is confident the horse will lay a good account for himself in his first attempt at 2000m in Saturday’s Doriemus Handicap at Flemington.
Eximius will step up to 2000m for the first time in Saturday’s 2016 Doriemus Handicap at Flemington. Photo: Race Horse Photos Australia
Eximius has posted a commendable six wins and ten minors through 38 career starts so far and has proven this time he is still more than capable of mixing it in good company; running second in each of the Listed Kilmore Cup (1600m) and Listed Tasmania Stakes (1600m) before finishing second in the Devonport Cup (1880m) most recently on January 6th.
Price told Racing Ahead is has no doubt the son of Exceed And Excel will handle the step up to 2000m for the first time in the Doriemus Handicap, but is unsure how he will be ridden from a wide draw.
“I think the distance will suit him no problem, I’m just not quite sure how to ride him. We’ve drawn seven of nine and so he’ll want to settle,” Price said.
“Obviously there’s a couple of nice horses in there and it will be interesting to see what they do.
“A bit of rain will take the jar out of the track and a bit of that would be good.”
Price was pleased with the six-year-old’s recent Tasmanian campaign and is confident he will perform to a typically high standard on Saturday.
“He was good in Tasmania and have every chance. He didn’t win but he’s a really nice horse to own and he’ll give a really nice account for himself,” Price said.
“He’ll be there about but obviously at his age I can’t say he’s improved out of sight or anything like that but he’s honest, sound and tough.
“Jackie (Beriman) will ride him well as she does, he’ll hit the line and win some prize money again.”
Confirmed to line upon alongside the likes of Real Love and Second Bullet in the Doriemus Handicap, Eximius is currently available at a generous quote of $16 for success with leading online bookie Ladbrokes.com.au.
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