John
Camilleri of Fairway Thoroughbreds will have mixed emotions on Cox Plate Day
having bred and sold the favourite Winx, but as an owner he will be represented
this year by French visitor Vadamos, who worked strongly at Moonee Valley on
Monday morning.
A superbly bred 5YO entire by Fiorente and Protectionist's sire Monsun, Vadamos
comes into the race as a last start Group I winner in France of the Prix du
Moulin over a mile.
After trotting one lap, work rider Alexander Olive and the ear muffs came off
and Damien Oliver got on to work over 1500m in 1:48.51 with the last 400m in
23.49 seconds and done with ease.
The Andre Fabre-trained Vadamos pleased connections and Oliver said the stallion
handled Moonee Valley comfortably.
"I was really happy with him this morning It's my second sit on the horse
and he was much more relaxed - I think he enjoyed the different track and
scenery," Oliver told Racenet.
"He adapted to the track very well and probably more importantly, he got
on his right leg and switched legs around the corners.
"He's settling into Australia well - the first time I rode him he was a
bit strong but he settled well this morning."
With Oliver suspended Joao Moreira has been booked to ride Vadamos in
Saturday's WS Cox Plate and Oliver said he should not be underestimated.
"We've got Winx and Hartnell in outstanding form at the moment but I think
he's got the X-factor and probably one of the few that is capable of causing an
upset," Oliver said.
"He's a forward runner and there doesn't appear to be a leader or a strong
tempo so that should suit him."
Vadamos will carry the Fairway Thoroughbreds colours this Saturday.