Gorada chases hat-trick on Gold Coast on way to a city start

JOHN Morrisey says a third successive win on the Gold Coast today will result in a run in Brisbane for in-form mare Gorada.

Gorada wins for jockey Shannon Doyle at the Gold Coast on January 21. Photo: Jessica Hawkins/Trackside Photography

JOHN Morrisey says a third successive win on the Gold Coast today will result in a run in Brisbane for in-form mare Gorada.

Former New Zealand jockey Shannon Doyle will ride Gorada, the $2.10 favourite, in the Black Tarquin Handicap (1800m), today.

The four-year-old mare goes into the race after ­winning a Gold Coast Class 1 over 1400m and a Class 2 over 1800m at her past two starts on December 31 and January 21.

Gorada’s last victory came on a heavy track, something she prefers, and Morrisey said she only needed a bit of luck today to win again.

“She has done everything right,” Morrisey said. “She likes the wet and it sort of helped her a bit the other day.

“She is a funny horse and she needs a few things to go her way.

“She needs to get to the outside and get clear running but she is going well.

“There is no reason why she shouldn’t win but she is one of those horses that just needs a bit of luck and a bit of room.”

Gorada relished the step up to 1800m and the wet track last start when she beat Premiere Place by almost three lengths.

Morrisey said Gorada would go to a 2200m race in Brisbane at her next run if she wins today.

“I don’t think distance will be a problem with her,” Morrisey said of the Iffraaj mare.

Gorada is the only early ride for Doyle, who has made a comeback to race riding after a two-year break.

The 36-year-old rode a winning double, including Gorada, on his first day back on January 21 and his overall tally stands at three wins from five rides.

■ THE Gold Coast Turf Club will honour Australian Hall of Fame jockey Edgar Britt, who died last week at the age of 103.

Friends and family of Britt will be in attendance today while jockeys will wear black armbands in his honour.

Race 4 has also been named the Edgar Britt Handicap and patrons will observe a minute’s silence after the race.