Gold Emblem experiences Moonee Valley ahead of debut

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Waterhouse wanted Gold Emblem to experience the Moonee Valley track ahead of his debut in the Super VOBIS 2YO Handicap (1000m) on Saturday and Duric was in the saddle alongside an unnamed colt by Snitzel, ridden by Jordan Childs.

Like Golden Slipper winner Vancouver, Gold Emblem is a son of Medaglia d'Oro and won a 800m jumpout at Flemington on November 13 in 47.02 seconds with Duric aboard.

"He wasn't out to do anything silly, we know he can gallop and Gai wanted him to have the experience of the track more than anything,” Duric said.

"He had a bit of a look around which is natural but once we cantered off he was on the bridle.

"It was a good experience for him and he handled the home turn well.”

Both horses wore blinkers and Duric said the headgear helps Gold Emblem concentrate.

"He's a horse that does like to have a look around but he sat alongside the other colt and went straight as an arrow," he said.

"A big tick of approval and a positive experience for him this morning.”

There are 22 nominations for Saturday's race with just one having already raced.

"I'm looking forward to the race on Saturday, it's always hard to tell what the opposition will be like but I'm sure he will run well,” Duric said.

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