Local trainer Kim Waugh is set to make a significant impact at the Wyong meeting on November 12, 2023, with two of her horses competing in key races. Waugh will debut the filly Gloria in the Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club & Golf Course Town Plate Maiden Plate (1100m) and will also field Rhinestone Lad in the Domeland Kulnura Cup Benchmark 64 Handicap (2100m).
The filly Gloria will be partnered by jockey Jay Ford, who has a solid history with her, having ridden her in three of four recent trials. Waugh expressed confidence in Gloria’s abilities, stating, “She’s a lovely horse. We gave her a couple of trials back in June and July, and she’s had another two recently, winning her latest trial at Wyong on November 10.”
Gloria is a daughter of Maurice and out of a Commands mare, and Waugh is hopeful that her favorable draw will contribute to a strong performance. She will face competition from Peter Snowden‘s entry, Composed, who has shown promise with a fourth and a second place finish in prior starts at Hawkesbury.
Other notable competitors in the race include Matthew Smith‘s first starter Curado, who has won all three of his trials, and entries from Ciaron Maher and Michael Freedman. The field also includes debut runners Opetaia and Sequista, trained by Bjorn Baker and the duo of Gerald Ryan and Sterling Alexiou, respectively.
Waugh is also optimistic about Rhinestone Lad’s prospects in the 2100m event. The son of Savabeel recently finished fourth behind Mediaro at the Beaumont track in Newcastle and is aiming for a stronger performance this time. “He’s a horse that has shown ability,” Waugh noted, highlighting his maiden win at Newcastle and another victory at Tamworth. His recent form includes a second-place finish at Scone over 2200m, indicating he is well-prepared for the upcoming race distance.
As the Wyong meeting approaches, Waugh’s dual entries represent her commitment to competing at a high level, eagerly anticipating a successful day on the track.
