The Steven O’Dea and Matthew Hoysted-trained Uncommon James, victor of the 2023 Oakleigh Plate (1100m), returns to familiar turf after nearly two years, set to compete in the Group 2 Victory Stakes (1200m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
Last seen in Brisbane triumphing in a 1100-metre contest at Doomben on July 9, 2022, Uncommon James finds comfort in returning home, a sentiment echoed by Hoysted.
He expressed to Racing Queensland, “It’s the first time he’s been at home since he raced here as a three-year-old.”
Hoysted continued, “He still does all his preparation here so racing at Eagle Farm is still definitely an advantage.”
Reflecting on recent performances, Hoysted noted, “He ran a good race to finish fifth (in The Galaxy) and was beaten less than two lengths.”
Regarding Uncommon James’s prospects, Hoysted remarked optimistically, “He struggled with the tempo a bit as they ran along at a good clip so hopefully over 1200 metres he can travel more comfortably and show his turn of foot.”
“He’s going every bit as good now as when he won the Oakleigh Plate.”
While Uncommon James was previously ridden by Damian Lane, Sydney’s Tommy Berry will take the reins for this weekend’s Group 2 event.
“We spoke with Damian and he wasn’t too sure whether he was coming to Brisbane or not.
“Tommy came up to ride Better Get Set for us in The Archer last Sunday before he was scratched, so we offered him the ride on Uncommon James.”