THE connections of Tasmanian bred gelding Like a Carousel will be hoping for a victory in Wednesday’s $300,000 Geelong Cup over 2400m with the hope of securing a berth in the $6 million Melbourne Cup over 3200m on the first Tuesday in November.
The Ken Keys trained gelding is currently 48th on the order of entry for the Melbourne Cup and will need to win the Geelong Cup to gain a penalty to force his way intro the race that stops the nation.
Like A Carousel (Helike-Carnival Ride) was bred at Armidale Stud and sold at the 2001 Tasmanian magic Millions Yearling sale for only $10,000.
Last start he out stayed his rivals to win the Listed Harry White Classic (2400m) at Sportingbet Park Sandown Hillside.
With the gelding’s regular rider this preparation Luke Nolan suspended, trainer Ken Keys has booked former Tasmanian jockey Craig Newitt for the ride on Wednesday.
Like A Carousel has won only two races from his 27 starts with seven minor placings for $205,000 in stakes but Keys has always maintained the horse will be at his best when he gets over 3200 metres.