Wats Normal breaks through

Improving three-year-old Wats Normal broke through for his maiden win at Picklebet Park Werribee on Saturday, April 12.

Trained by Tony & Calvin McEvoy, Wats Normal was having just his fourth race start when taking out the OFI Weight & Inspection Solutions Maiden (1400m).

Ridden by Jake Duffy, the gelding, the $3.20 favourite, scored by 1-1/4 lengths from All Business ($3.90) with Meet The Wife ($10), three-quarters of a length away third.

From gate two, Duffy was able to settle fifth on the inside early before asking his mount to come off the inside past the 700 metres.

Wats Normal cruised up to the lead on straightening, then under riding by Duffy drew clear to win well.

Rayan Moore, Racing Manager for McEvoy Mitchell Racing, believes Wats Normal can win better races.

“He was immature as a younger horse,” Moore said.

“We had him going along as a two-year-old, but he just wasn’t ready.

“His two runs this preparation have both been good.

“Avoca didn’t really suit him first up over 1300 metres, but he did well to finish second.

“Today, Jake gave him a perfect ride and he was too good.

“His inexperience showed as he tended to float when he hit the lead.

“I think he is in for a good preparation in races up to 1600 metres.”

Winning jockey Jake Duffy believes Wats Normal is a horse on the improve.

“From the good gate I was able to get a nice run,” Duffy said.

“The step up to seven furlongs (1400m) really suited him.

“He travelled much nicer in the run, and I had plenty of horse under me.

“I probably got there (the lead) a bit early because he floated a bit when he hit the front.

“The way he cruised up to them suggests as he steps up through the grades he can measure up.

“He is a horse which is probably going to be better over more ground.

“He does wear a tongue tie so as long as that wind doesn’t stop him getting a mile (1600m), that is where you will see the best of him.”