Apprentice jockey Lachlan Neindorf believes Saturday’s Furphy Railway Stakes is his best chance yet of breaking through for a Group 1 win.
He’ll be aboard the Will Clarken trained Ironclad, rated a $11 chance for the 1600m handicap at Ascot in Perth.
“The horse has 53 kilos - it’s a light weight so I think that put my name right in there and I’ve had a bit of success for Will in the past,” Neindorf said.
“I’ve had a few opportunities in Group 1 races before so that calms the nerves for me, and unfortunately Ben Price is suspended at the moment, so with his apprentice being suspended, and not many other people able to ride at that weight I was very grateful to get the call.
“I actually haven’t sat on the horse but I’ve see him and he’s a beautiful big looking horse. I think he’s a good chance.
“The team seems to think he’s travelled over well. I’ve seen a few videos of him and he’s looking fresh, and well within himself so that’s always a good sign.
“We’ve drawn a perfect barrier so I think the whole team is rapt and very excited. I think barrier seven is very suitable for him and he comes into barrier five if emergencies don’t get a run so we’re off to a good start - the God’s have helped us. So hopefully all going well we’ll maximise on that and he’ll be a good chance” he said.
Neindorf has ridden 12 city winners in South Australia this season to sit second on the SA metro premiership and is grateful for the support he’s received since moving home in April.
“I’m apprenticed to Gordon and Damien and since I’ve come back they’ve been very supportive and got the ball rolling for me straight away,” he said.
“Jockeys live for Group 1 success and to get an opportunity in a Group 1 again is fantastic. I’ve had a couple before and this is probably my best chance, so it would be good if I could convert on Saturday it would just be a thrill”.
Prominent Western Australian trainers Grant and Alan Williams have also put Neindorf on their $26 hope Lord Gannicus in the Group 2 WA Guineas.
“It’s a lightly raced horse and drawn a good barrier in barrier one, so without having done the form I’d say they’re not putting me in there for giggles. They’re good trainers and it’s a thrill to be riding a horse of theirs and hopefully that might start a strong connection into the future.”