Memsie Stakes hopefuls

Trainer Tony McEvoy will launch a two-pronged attack on Saturday’s Group 1 $1million New Zealand Bloodstock Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield.

McEvoy will start Group 1 Goodwood Handicap winner Despatch (pictured), to be ridden by Jamie Kah, and Group One Flight Stakes victor Oohood, with Luke Currie aboard.

Michael Shepherdson, Melbourne stable foreman for the trainer, said the mare Oohood had come on well after resuming in the Aurie’s Star Handicap.

“She didn’t have a lot of room in the race, especially over the second half,” Shepherdson said.

“She hit line well, and Luke (jockey Luke Currie) was really happy.

“It cleaned her up and she has come on in the coat, and she is quite bright and well.

“We took Oohood to Sandown on Wednesday morning for her final bit of work for the Memsie.

“It was to take her away from home, get her a bit more stimulated and bring her on even more.”

Shepherdson said Despatch had been quite solid in Adelaide when resuming in the Spring Stakes and finishing fourth.

“There was improvement in him, and he has tightened up.

“He has settled in well at Flemington after the trip over.

“We haven’t had him over here for quite a while, but he has settled into the routine beautifully.”

Shepherdson said Despatch also went to Sandown for his final gallop and would wear blinkers in the Memsie.

“He’ll put himself up on the speed on Saturday and the Sandown gallop will tighten him up nicely.”

Shepherdson said the Memsie would be a fabulous contest with quality runners.

“Our two won’t be the favourites but we’re hoping for really good runs.”