Denby hoping to honour Cowell with a win at Gosford this Saturday
By Brenton Le Grand
There won’t be a dry eye at The Entertainment Grounds at Gosford this Saturday, if comeback jockey Amelia Denby can salute on any of her three rides for the late Fred Cowell.
With the stable now handled by Fred’s wife Irene, Denby is looking to continue her comeback following a horror fall at Wellington on April 7, where she broke her back in two places. Denby’s first winner in this region was on Sojournist for the Cowell camp back in February, and she has three strong chances to honour him on his home track this Saturday.
Denby pilots Uncle Sam in the Gilbert and Roach Isuzu Trucks Gosford 4 or More Maiden Plate over 1100m following a close up second last start at Cessnock. The four-year-old I Am Invincible gelding has always been thereabouts and will be aiming to finally break his maiden status in what seems a winnable race.
“He’s a very consistent horse, that just hasn’t found the right race to break through,” Denby said. “I think once he wins one, he might just go on with it.”
In the following event, the Axis Services Group 3YO Maiden Handicap over 1000m, Denby rides Classy Fella who is on debut for the Cowell camp. The three-year-old Nicconi gelding steps out for the first time following a strong trial win at Newcastle July 12.
“He’s very well named, because he does have a bit of class about him,” Denby said. “I’ve ridden him in all three trials, and it will be great for him to debut at his home track on Saturday.”
Denby reunites with Sojournist in the Central Coast Coolrooms Benchmark 71 Handicap over 1000m, following two victories on her last preparation. With three wins and eight placings from only 14 starts, the four-year-old Stratum mare has been a fantastic money-spinner for connections and has amazingly never been further back than fifth.
“She’s always competitive in whatever she races in,” Denby said. “Her first up form is alright, but we’ll look to get her over further later in the preparation.”
Gates open at 11am with the first race scheduled for 12.04pm. It will a great day on course with the club featuring Christmas in July, a Kids Zone, live music on the lawn and local artist Grant Molony will be painting a life size horse sculpture. Casual dining options are available.