Tony Gollan has sounded an ominous warning to the rivals of Jonker ahead of the Group Three George Moore Stakes at Doomben.
Jonker was having his first start for Gollan when he demolished a classy line up of sprinters to win the Keith Noud Quality (1200m) at Doomben on November 14.
In the process he clocked 1:07.83 to break the track record set by Takeover Target in 2005.
Many form students believe it is difficult for a horse to replicate a peak performance at their next start but Gollan thinks otherwise.
“He’s only improved in the last three weeks,” Gollan said.
“Can he go any faster? I’m not sure but he probably doesn’t have to. If he can go at the same speed or a smidgen slower he’s still going to be very hard to beat.
“He’s in great shape and I’m certainly looking forward to the race with him.”
Jonker led throughout from barrier 14 to win the Keith Noud with Jim Byrne in the saddle and Gollan expects a repeat of those tactics from a better draw on Saturday, notwithstanding the presence of noted frontrunner The Odyssey.
“The positive from the other day was Jonker’s intent from the get-go,” Gollan said.
“The Odyssey is a very quick horse the first 100 metres of a race and Jimmy’s intention will be to hold the lead if they begin with the gusto they’re accustomed to.
“I’d be shocked if The Odyssey could cross him and Jimmy will not want that to happen.”
Jonker’s stablemate Outback Barbie, who will be ridden by Michael Rodd, will have to overcome a tough draw to win after coming up with gate 11 in the 13-horse field.
“Her chances would’ve been enhanced with a better barrier,” Gollan said.
“I think they’ve given Michael the visitor’s draw but she’s going great and in really good shape.”
Gollan is aiming for his fourth win in the George Moore after victories with Didntcostalot (2015), Most Important (2016) and I’m A Rippa (2018).
Isotope has been labelled by Gollan as his best winning prospect for the day in the Listed Mode Plate (1200m).