Coincide set for distance drop at Ipswich track
Trainer Brian Gentle is opting for a tactical shift, shortening Coincide's distance from 1100 metres to 800 metres, as he aims for back-to-back wins with the gelding.
The former Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained runner has accumulated four victories and eight placings across 37 starts. It wasn't until Coincide joined Gentle's stable that the gelding began to achieve consistent success.
Last start's triumph over 1100m at Ipswich could position Coincide favourably in the Vale Barry 'Keith' Self Benchmark 58 Handicap, provided the horse has a clear run.
"Back in distance? I don't think it is too much of a drama," Gentle stated.
"He has performed well over 800-metres before and he has shown a liking for Ipswich."
The six-year-old gelding has a notable affinity for Ipswich, recording one win and three placings from his seven starts at the venue.
"With his record, he has had couple of unlucky runs but he is a rejuvenated horse," Gentle added.
"He is the sort of horse who puts in 120% into his race day and also puts 120% into his gallops so at some stages he has been leaving everything on the track.
"At his last four starts he was missing the start on jumping and getting four or five lengths behind the second-last horse. Then he was making up a ton of ground late.
"I don't know if there's a trick but since he jumped well when he won at Dalby, he hasn't looked back."
Apprentice Jasper Franklin will retain the ride on Coincide for their fourth consecutive start together.
"Jasper was unlucky on him a few runs back and so I was happy to give him another chance," Gentle explained.
"He wasn't really happy (with the outcome) then and he said 'if you keep me on your horses I'll win for you'."
Gentle believes Coincide's current $9.50 quote reflects the market's apprehension concerning the reduced distance.
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