Venom Rush set to make amends at Ipswich

After a lacklustre performance at Eagle Farm, trainer Michael Morrison is confident Venom Rush can bounce back at Ipswich on Thursday.

The three-year-old colt finished last in a field of 17 in the Listed Queensland Day Stakes (1200m) on June 6, a result that fell short of stable expectations. Despite being a $41 outsider, Morrison believes the run provides a platform for a return to Class 1 company in the Barrier Reef Pools Handicap over the same distance.

"I'm more than certain he's got a good race in him," Morrison said.

"We thought we would be more competitive in that race but if you have a quick squiz at the replay, we're three-wide early and then from that point I think the white towel was thrown up."

"So he pulled up from that really well considering that he's pretty much gone around for a track gallop."

"He was beaten 7.5-lengths in a listed race so I wouldn't be using that run as an indicator."

Purchased by Morrison for $1,500 in 2024, Venom Rush has already returned over $25,000 from one win and two placings in seven starts, underscoring the importance of securing prize money.

"The barrier gods haven't been overly kind to us but we'll just have to go back on him and ride him for luck," Morrison added, referencing his draw in barrier 15.

Adam Blencowe, Senior Handicapper at Racing and Sports, notes that backmarkers frequently find success at Ipswich, a fact that may escape many bettors.

"(But) most races there are run at a fairly genuine tempo," Morrison agreed. "I think that gives most horses their chance. You've just got to be careful not to swoop four or five wide but instead try and cut the corner and look for some room when you level up."

Morrisson has engaged jockey Brandon Lerena, cousin to South African jockey Gavin Lerena. Lerena maintains a 13% win rate and 32.6% placing rate with Morrison, with his Ipswich statistics showing a slightly better 14.5% winners and close to 40% placings.

"He's probably my number one jockey," Morrison remarked. "He knows the horse inside out and I think he's the sort of rider who is capable of getting a horse to settle nicely."

"Brandon always gives the 100% and he's going to be one you want on, for sure."

For those keen on the action, explore the latest 'betting markets for the race' at online bookmakers.