Mile test for Harry’s Yacht in 2026 Vobis Gold Reef

Will Larkin is confident the timing is right to test Harry’s Yacht over the mile when the gelding contests Saturday’s Vobis Gold Reef at Flemington.

The four-year-old has enjoyed a strong preparation to date, registering two wins at benchmark level and adding two placings in Vobis races over 1200 metres.

Training in partnership with Leon & Troy Corstens, Larkin believes the race shape and weight conditions make Saturday’s assignment an ideal stepping stone.

“It’s a distance we’ve always thought that he’d get to eventually,” Larkin said.

“He still just does a little bit wrong in the early stage of his races, but I think if he can find a bum to follow, he’ll really be relishing to the line.”

A confidence-boosting victory over 1400 metres at Geelong encouraged the stable to persist with the step up in distance.

“I think just stepping up to 1400 (metres) was a big plus for him,” Larkin said.

“We probably ran one or two too many at the 1200 when you look back on it now.

“But he’s really good, he’s come on again.”

With Jimmy The Bear carrying 61kg, Harry’s Yacht will receive the benefit of the minimum weight despite being one of the higher-rated runners.

“I think with Jimmy The Bear being in the race and getting in with 54 kilos is a bit of a steal,” Larkin said.

“It’s good prize money for these Vobis Gold races as well.

“It’s a box that he’s still going to tick, the mile, but I’m pretty confident that he will.”

Betting interest is building across trusted horse racing betting sites ahead of the Flemington contest.

Harry’s Yacht is quoted at $3.10 for the $175,000 race, with Luke Currie booked for the ride.

The post Mile test for Harry’s Yacht first appeared on Just Horse Racing.