3 minute read

The connections of talented sprinter Rebel Factor have a big decision to make in the coming days regarding the gelding’s next target following his impressive win in the Ladbroke It BM68 handicap over 1100m in Launceston on Wednesday night.

In Brief

• Rebel Factor brilliant first-up in Launceston.
• Connections will be tempted to head to Newmarket.
• $109,000 Ladbrokes Carpet Charge attractive option for quality sprinter.

Rebel Factor ($2 fav) resumed from a break with an effortless win against strong company and while it was in a grade below his rating, he had to lug 61kg to score by a length from in-form mare Majestic Diamond that was backed in to start the $2.35 second-elect.

The Team Wells-trained five-year-old hadn't raced since July-August when he strung two wins together on his home track in Devonport.

The one prior to his spell was in a benchmark 76 in which he toyed with his rivals to win by over two lengths as the $1.45 favourite.

On Wednesday night jockey Brendon Mccoull had him settled just off the speed set by Hannah's Song and when her rider Siggy Carr slowed the tempo, McCoull eased back so as not to get his charge over-racing.

Majestic Diamond whipped around the field and forged to the lead in the home straight but when McCoull eased Rebel Factor off their heels to stake his claim, the grey gelding quickly hauled in the leader and went on to win comfortably without being fully extended.

Co-trainer Trent Wells said the win was expected, but the small field was a concern.

"We make no secret of the fact we believe he is a quality galloper," Wells said.

"After speaking to Brendon (McCoull) we can now look at the Newmarket as a genuine option but there are many other ways we can go from here and that includes the Carpet Charge, the new race on the calendar worth over $100,000 (1009m) on Devonport Cup Day (11 January 2023)."

Rebel Factor won two in succession in May before being sent for a break, but just when he was close to resuming, he developed a niggling muscular injury that had to be addressed.

"After his trial he pulled up a bit tight so we had to back off him but he's through that and we are quite looking forward to what he might achieve in the coming months."

Connections will have a think about whether to push on to the Newmarket or search for easier pickings in the coming month as lead-ups to the Ladbrokes Carpet Charge worth $109,000 on Devonport Cup Day.