PROMINENT Mount Isa horse owners Linda and Graham Huddy could be part of the first maiden win of the $1.5 million Victoria Derby in more than 20 years.
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The successful Mount Isa business couple own a share in Preferment, one of the top fancies for tomorrow’s three-year-old group 1 feature at Flemington on Derby Day.
Preferment, prepared by Sydney’s premier trainer Chris Waller, is yet to win a race but has put the writing on the wall that the 2500-metre Victoria Derby is a race he can win.
In one of the key lead-up races, Preferment started favourite in the listed Geelong Classic to put himself in the Victoria Derby picture. He charged late at winner Nozomi, just failing by a nose to overhaul the Godolphin colt at the end of the 2200m.
Jockey Damien Oliver said Preferment was under pressure coming to the turn but let down strongly the last 100 metres.
‘‘He’ll love Flemington and the extra distance,’’ Oliver said.
Oliver stays aboard Preferment and will be hoping Preferment’s staying bloodlines will be on show at the end of the race.
Mrs Huddy finally enjoyed some luck at the barrier draw for a big race, picking the favourable gate six.
She said the wide expanses of Flemington would suit Preferment.
“Flemington will be a better track for him,” Mrs Huddy said.