Mr Racing to benefit from Wiggins' dynamic riding at Ipswich
The jockey Ryan Wiggins exemplifies the 'have saddle, will travel' mindset, regularly journeying multiple times along Queensland's east coast in any given week.
Part of his plans this week involves partnering David Vandyke's Mr Racing at Ipswich as the gelding seeks a breakthrough win after placing third in his initial run this month.
In this sophomore effort, he faces the TAB Maiden Handicap at 1666m on the turf, a change from his debut on the Gold Coast's synthetic surface.
"We had other options we were looking at but that was quite a weak race on a synthetic track and he was beaten for speed," Vandyke said.
"He should run an improved race out to the mile and Ryan is a good aggressive jockey who is very passionate about what he does and he gets the best out of his horses.
"This horse was off the bit for quite some way last start and he needs someone who is going to give him proper direction."
Wiggins' heavy travel schedule this week is par for the course, including rides at Cairns, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Townsville, Mackay, and Ipswich on Friday.
While flights feature, the road mileage surpasses 4500 kilometres.
Vandyke's other participants include Acapulco Girl, returning first-up in the Ipswich Party Hire Handicap after a break since August.
"She's got a good draw in barrier four and I think the 1100-metres in a Class 2 at the provincials is an ideal race to kick off."
The trainer opts for Ben Thompson aboard, the Queensland resident and former Victorian third in the jockeys' premiership on 94½ wins.
Thompson also rides Better Draw, whom Vandyke labelled 'a thinker' capable of contending late with a restrained ride.
Regarding further runners, Sunshine Coast-based Vandyke weighs options for Slippin' Jimmy between Ipswich and Eagle Farm on Saturday.
"He's ready to run a good race, especially back in distance so I expect him to run well," Vandyke added.
"I think he needs a bit of confidence. He's just been struggling to regain his best form after having an incredible strike rate early when he won the Magic Millions Country Cup convincingly.
"I just really want to see him bounce back to form and if that means going to an easier option then I'm happy to go in that direction."
Explore the best online bookmakers ahead of the TAB Maiden Handicap action at Ipswich.
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