Wyong trainer Kim Waugh is brimming with optimism about the future prospects of her promising four-year-old gelding, Bondasong, following its impressive debut victory. The galloper is now set to tackle the Metal Transport Industries Provincial Class 1 Handicap over 1200 metres at Kembla Grange this Wednesday, aiming to preserve its flawless record.
A Stellar Debut in Testing Conditions
Bondasong, a son of Your Song out of the Pins mare Bondarenko, made its racing debut at Gosford on January 17. Despite confronting horrendous weather and torrential rain, the $1.50 favourite delivered a commanding performance, securing a runaway win that left connections delighted.
"It was a pleasing performance, and he lived up to what he'd shown us on the track and in his trials," Waugh remarked, reflecting on the gelding's successful introduction to competitive racing.
Preparation and Proven Ability
Prior to its debut, Bondasong had demonstrated potential in barrier trials, finishing second at Wyong and fourth on the Beaumont track at Newcastle. Jockey Keagan Latham, who partnered the horse in the Wyong trial, maintained the association for the Gosford triumph, showcasing a growing rapport with the galloper.
Waugh highlighted the challenging conditions faced at Gosford, noting, "The rain was torrential during his race, but he handled it well, as you'd expect being by Your Song. He got through the conditions with ease and scored by a big margin."
Looking Ahead to Kembla Grange and Beyond
Latham will continue his partnership with Bondasong at Kembla Grange, where the horse is bred and raced by the Johns family, known for previous success with Typhoon Zed in The Galaxy. Waugh expressed confidence in the gelding's upward trajectory, stating, "He's a horse with plenty of upside and, all going well on Wednesday, I'd like to think he has a bright future."
She added that post-race assessments will determine Bondasong's next steps, emphasising the excitement surrounding its development.
Latham's Full Card at Kembla Grange
Beyond Bondasong, Keagan Latham has a busy schedule at the Kembla Grange meeting, with four rides across the six-race card. His other mounts include Yesglenn for Warwick Farm trainer John Steinmetz in the PFD Food Services 4YO Up Maiden Plate, Cap D'Ail prepared by Diane Poidevin-Laine in the Master Builders Association Midway Maiden Plate, and last-start winner Deep Emotion for John Thompson in the Express Smash Repairs Conditional Benchmark 68 Handicap.
Race-by-Race Analysis and Tips
Expert selections for the Kembla Grange meeting, based on a good track, offer insights for punters:
Race 1
Meritage shows promise with encouraging recent runs and gets jockey Pierre Boudvillain's retention from a favourable gate. Key contenders include Walk Like A Man, Don's Party, and Belgrano.
How to play it: Meritage WIN.
Race 2
Malbork Castle brings consistent form into this event, while Viktor steps up in distance and Powerful Prayer arrives off a strong performance. Flaming Moon rounds out the chances.
How to play it: Malbork Castle WIN.
Race 3
Manukau seeks a breakthrough win after multiple placings, facing debutants Declan, Juvenal, and Plume who have trialled well.
How to play it: Manukau WIN.
Race 4
Bondasong stands out after a dominant debut win, with Classic Pocket, Firework, and Aisle Two posing threats.
How to play it: Bondasong WIN.
Race 5
Sister's Run returns from a spell with solid trial form, while Cosmic Avenger, Zougotme, and Tahurangi offer each-way value.
How to play it: Sister's Run EACH WAY.
Race 6
Octa De Lago appears the one to beat based on recent victories, with Inoue, Deep Emotion, and Cheeky Dancer in contention.
How to play it: Octa De Lago WIN.
Best bets: Race 1 (8) Meritage, Race 4 (1) Bondasong.
Best value: Race 5 (11) Sister's Run.
Gambling involves risk. Please bet responsibly and seek help if needed from services like GambleAware NSW or Gambling Help Online.
