One Last Hurrah: Gold Rush 2023 gives one last ride to Damien Oliver
The Ascot Racecourse is set to host the highly anticipated 2023 Gold Rush race this Saturday, a glittering highlight of the Perth Summer Racing Carnival. Following the success of its inaugural run in 2022, won by The Astrologist, this year’s event promises even more excitement with a lucrative $1.5 million prize pool. The 1400m race will begin as a Group 3 event, reflecting its growing prestige and significance in the racing calendar.
Named to honour Western Australia’s rich gold mining history, The Gold Rush is not just a race; it’s a nod to the state’s heritage. This year’s edition is especially noteworthy as it pays tribute to the legendary Australian jockey Damien Oliver. Known as the Damien Oliver Gold Rush, this race marks a significant chapter in Australian racing history.
The field for the 2023 Gold Rush is shaping up to be a thrilling mix of top contenders and promising underdogs. Among the notable entries is Dom To Shoot, who has drawn barrier 14. With Jarrad Noske at the reins, this Sean and Jake Casey-trained contender is expected to make a strong showing. Valour Road, another formidable competitor trained by Simon A Miller and ridden by Chris Parnham, will start from barrier 16, adding to the race’s unpredictability.
Bustler, trained by Neville Parnham and ridden by Steven Parnham, has drawn barrier 15 and is another strong contender, especially after his impressive win in the Railway. Munhamek, representing Nick Ryan and ridden by Damien Oliver, faces a challenge from barrier 17. This race will be Oliver’s final ride, adding an emotional layer to the contest.
Red Can Man, starting from a more favourable barrier 8, and Massimo from barrier 7, are also in the mix, each bringing their unique strengths to the race. Starting from barrier 3, Comfort Me is another one to watch, with Shaun McGruddy as the jockey.
The race also features eastern raider Ayrton, a strong contender, with Damian Lane, who has previously led him to victory, as the jockey. Ayrton’s performance in the G1 Rupert Clarke Stakes has set high expectations for his performance in the Gold Rush.
With such a diverse and talented field, the 2023 Gold Rush at Ascot promises to be full of drama, strategy, and top-class racing action. Fans and punters eagerly anticipate this showdown, where history, prestige, and a hefty prize pool are all on the line.
The Favourites
1. Ripcord (16)
Trained by Luke Fernie and ridden by Clint Johnston-Porter, Ripcord is emerging as the top favourite for the Gold Rush. This 3-year-old has shown remarkable resilience and a knack for late surges, as evidenced by his impressive performances in the Placid Ark and the Winterbottom. His racing style suggests that the 1400m distance of the Gold Rush will suit him perfectly. With some luck and strategic racing, Ripcord could be charging to victory, making him a strong contender to watch.
2. Valour Road (2)
Valour Road, trained by Simon A Miller and ridden by Chris Parnham, is another top contender. Having strategically skipped some key lead-up races and focusing on a tick-over trial, Valour Road is in peak form for the Gold Rush. His recent performances indicate he’s at the top of his game, making him a serious threat to Ripcord. Valour Road’s experience and consistency make him a formidable challenger for the top spot.
3. Ayrton (10)
The eastern raider Ayrton, trained by Mick Price & Michael Kent Jnr and ridden by Damian Lane, is a notable contender. His solid run in the G1 Rupert Clarke and a preference for racing fresh make him a serious competitor. Damian Lane, who has previously steered Ayrton to victory, will be in the saddle, adding to the horse’s chances of success. He could upset the favourites if Ayrton brings his best form to the race.
The Best of the Rest
4. Munhamek (4)
Munhamek, trained by Nick Ryan and set to be ridden by the legendary Damien Oliver in his final ride, is a horse that cannot be overlooked. Despite a disappointing run in the Rupert Clarke, Munhamek has shown he performs well when fresh. His trial in Western Australia has been promising, and with Oliver’s expertise, Munhamek could deliver a memorable performance in this prestigious race.
5. Bustler (3)
Neville Parnham’s Bustler, with Steven Parnham as the jockey, enters the Gold Rush on the back of a victory in the Railway. Bustler can make a significant impact by dropping back to a more suitable 1400m trip and racing on a 7-day backup. His recent form and adaptability to different race conditions make him a horse to watch.
6. Red Can Man (5)
Stephen Wolfe’s Red Can Man, ridden by Paul Harvey, starts from a favourable barrier 8, which could play to his advantage. Known for his consistency and strong performances, Red Can Man has the potential to surprise many by challenging the top contenders. His strategic positioning and racing acumen could see him making a significant push in the race’s final stages.
