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Orman can make history in Eagle Farm opener

19 December 2018

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By Glenn Davis

Jockey Jim Orman will be vying for a slice history when he partners Magic Millions Classic hopeful Pocket Pistol in the Basil Nolan Jnr QTIS Two-Year-Old Handicap at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Orman had the honour of winning the Group 3 Fred Best Classic aboard Niccanova in the final race held at Eagle Farm on May 27, 2017.

He’s now hoping to celebrate Eagle Farm’s reopening by winning the first race when he rides the Kelly Schweida-trained Pocket Pistol.

However, Orman’s task won’t be easy with talented Victorian colt Dubious set to make his Queensland debut.

The Ciaron Maher-trained Dubious made a brilliant race debut winning the Group 3 Breeders Plate at Caulfield in September. 

Pocket Pistol drew barrier five while Dubious will jump from near the outside gate nine in the field which has been restricted to 10 runners.

Pocket Pistol is one of three Schweida runners along with Gala Miss and The Odyssey who are aiming for the $2 million Magic Millions Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast on January 12.

The Odyssey is a certain qualifier with almost $130,000 in prizemoney but Gala Miss ($48,950) and Pocket Pistol ($46,500) are borderline contenders but should sneak into the field.

Pocket Pistol was an impressive winner at Doomben last month before finishing second to Mishani Spirit over 900 metres at the Gold Coast 10 days ago.

“Pocket Pistol is a smart horse and it was a bit short for him last start at the Gold Coast,” Orman said.

“He’s drawn well enough to race well against Dubious and we’ve got a better draw.”

Orman and Schweida have forged a formidable association in recent times.

“We’ve got a good strike rate and I’ve been riding a few winners for Kelly lately,” Orman said.

“I’ve been riding for him for a while but we’ve struck form together lately.”

Orman gave Eagle Farm the thumbs up after riding on the renovated track in a recent jump out.

“I rode in 1600 metres jump out and we finished at the 800 metres and then cantered home the rest,” he said.

“The track felt great and I can’t wait to get back riding there.”

Racing Queensland webnews   December 19