LANCELIN trainer Ashley Maley plans to start Push to Pass in a 2000m race at Belmont in about a fortnight after the gelding’s success at his first attempt over 2100m.
On Saturday, May 20 Push to Pass put to rest Maley’s concerns the grey might not make the distance by winning the John “JJ” Miller Hall of Fame Inductee Handicap (2100m).
Maley said Push to Pass had not put in a bad run this preparation, which included his win in the Commit to Change Handicap (1800m) on May 6.
After the John “JJ” Miller Hall of Fame Inductee, where Push to Pass started from barrier seven, Maley said he had thought the horse was more suited to 1600m to 1800m races but the win in the 2100m could mean he was versatile.
“I did wonder whether he was going to make the trip,’’ he said.
“I didn’t think he’d make the trip that good.
“But he was given a really nice ride and drew a barrier again that was really good that we could (position) into a nice spot.’’
Maley said if Push to Pass could continue his run of form it would be awesome as he finished his races really well.
After the race jockey Shaun McGruddy said Push to Pass had started really well and even though the plan had been to keep him in the centre of the field he did not like giving away a head start and the horse had travelled really well.
The Alan Mathews-trained Preselection came from last to finish third.
