To have a runner in the Melbourne Cup is a dream result for Bendigo horseman Josh Julius.
The easiest way for Julius to achieve that would be to win The Andrew Ramsden (2800m) at Flemington on Saturday with Super Girl.
Victory in the Andrew Ramsden provides the winner a ballot exemption into November’s Melbourne Cup.
“It’s a pipedream that first Tuesday in November, whether you’re a trainer, an owner or a jockey,” Julius said.
“The Melbourne Cup is what everyone dreams of and strives for and it’s a big thrill to be a part of this week leading into a race like this.
“If all our stars align and all the miracles fall into place and we do get the chocolates, I’m sure the next six months will be sleepless, but I’m sure they’ll be enjoyable.”
Julius and owner Jim Middlemis began planning their Andrew Ramsden strategy after Super Girl was successful at Bendigo over 2400m to end her campaign in November.
The pair planned a three or four-run campaign into the Warrnambool Cup and providing Super Girl ran well in that race it would get her to Flemington.
Super Girl finished fourth in the Warrnambool Cup behind Too Close The Sun, an opponent on Saturday, after racing back, cutting the corner, and finishing in inferior ground.
Julius said Super Girl had come a long way mentally after starting her career with Leon and Troy Corstens at Flemington.
“She didn’t handle the city environment and it took a lot to get her to relax in her work which is now evident in her races,” Julius said.
“Unfortunately with those backmarkers you’ve got to take what you get sometimes the way races are run.
“I don’t see the 2800 metres being any problem. The only question is will it be a problem in that company.
“She’s run through the line strongly in her restricted grade 2400-metre races on a handful of occasions and when we’ve thrown her into open company, she’s run well and hasn’t disgraced herself, but has lacked that punch.
“But we think she has taken that next step now and have always felt the further the better.”
Billy Egan takes the ride aboard Super Girl for the first time on Saturday.