3 minute read

Slight gear change for Fastconi works wonders for Waller

A simple suggestion from jockey Brenton Avdulla to champion trainer Chris Waller has proved the difference for consistent galloper Fastconi at Randwick.

The Nicconi gelding has always been thereabouts in his first 14 starts with two wins and seven placings but had never really put them to the sword like he did on Saturday. The three-year-old went on to win by a widening two length margin over Super Effort ($9.50) with Sahra ($8) in third.

Avdulla had ridden Fastconi seven times before this race and recently suggested to Waller that the blinkers off, visors on tactic may do the trick. While Fastconi has shown streaks of ability, he was failing to finish off his races over the final stages.

"I reckon he switched off on me the other day so hence the visors where he can just see a little bit more," Avdulla said.

"He's on the improve, it was nice to get the win on him and hopefully he can go on with it this time of year.

"I remember riding him early on in his career and he was butting around in maidens. It just shows you the progression that Chris can get out of these horses."

Premiership-winning trainer Waller was appreciative of Avdulla's advice and mentioned this particular gear change may not just apply to Fastconi.

"There might be a few more getting it after that," Waller quipped.

"He's been racing well and consistently each and every run, but he just hadn't quite been nailing them, certainly not like he did today.

"He needs to see a little bit more, so blinkers are making him focus but he needs to know what he's competing against.

"It was a great ride and when Brenton asked him to quicken after a lovely run he just went bang."