By Jonny Turner
Tim Williams will be doing everything he can to hold an early advantage with his best chances on Winton Cup Day.
Williams will combine with a powerful line-up of drives, including key All Lay Carpet & Drapes Winton Cup runner Double Jeopardy and Seaside Rose, a major player in the Vetsouth Equine Southern Belle Final.
Both will wear the number one saddlecloth and both will carry plenty of punter support. And if they are going to justify that faith, Williams knows making the best possible beginning will set up both horses’ chances.
“The start is going to be crucial for both of them.”
“Obviously, Double Jeopardy is only having his second stand start, so he is going to need to get it right.”
“He stepped away well from barrier one at Wyndham, and hopefully he can do the same on Thursday.”
“Seaside Rose will need to hold her own early, (barrier) one looks ideal on paper, and hopefully it works out that way.”
Double Jeopardy dealt to his lower grade rivals on his last trip to Southland for trainers Steve and Amanda Telfer.
The win came just days after he had beaten many of his Winton Cup rivals at Wyndham.
Betterthancash took honours that day, with Double Jeopardy getting a 10m handicap advantage over the favourite this time.
“He got that easy kill last time, and his work since then has been really nice,” Williams said.
“It feels like his confidence levels are pretty good. He’s had two runs back and hit the line nicely both times.”
“It looks a nice race for him if he can make another good beginning.”
Seaside Rose took her game up a notch when cruising away with the final heat of the Southern Belle Series.
“She seemed to thrive on her last trip south, she did it really nice in that last heat,” Williams said.
“She’s come back and worked really well since then too.”
“We will be trying to hold our spot early. I’m sure there will be a bit going on.”
“But if she can stay handy or follow the right one, she will be a nice chance.”
Williams and Stonewall Stud have plenty more winning chances at the Winton Cup meeting.
Elektra King looks a genuine hope in the final Macca Lodge – Nevele R Stud Southern Oaks heat, as does Treasure Cove, who faces a tricky draw in the final Alabar Southern Supremacy Stakes heat.
The combination also starts Toffee Potts in Thursday’s Group 2 Entain Southern Fillies Classic.