Latest News

When Grant Buckley has a typical full book at the regionals it’s rarely if he’ll ride a winner - its mostly a matter of just how many.

Especially when the accomplished veteran links with regional training heavy weights Cody Morgan and Cameron Crockett at the Muswellbrook TAB meeting on Friday.

And “Bucko” of course is reinforced with the form and speed maps provided by his wife Chantelle, the respected SKY Racing analyst and former jockey.

Jaytees (Aaron Bullock) lands the prize at Muswellbrook. Image by Bradley Photographers

And backing up from riding at Newcastle on Thursday, Grant is unusually wide in the market with most of his seven Muswellbrook rides.

Grant interrupted a play session with his two-year-old son Jett for thoughts on Muswellbrook.

“Well named, fast little tacker, head down bolts, takes some catching,” Grant laughed.

“My best looks to be Stephen Farley’s Jaytees, first-up, really impressive win here last prep and the time was just outstanding for a Class 2.”

The 0.56.98 for a 1000m in April is low surface flying following a Quirindi 1000m win also dominant as Jaytees contests the TAB BM 66 (1000m) with a hefty 61.5kg.

“The weight is my only concern, first-up and up 1.5kg from his last win, but Stephen always has them ready. And the weight isn’t as much a factor in shorter races.

“Yep, inside gate, speed horse with the form, has to be hard to beat.”

And Buckley anticipates a vast improvement from Cody’s Morgan’s Smart Shot in the Coolmore Country Boosted BM 58 (1500m). He rode it last start unplaced at Tamworth.

“The 1200m was too short, got right back but worked home okay and I rode him last prep at Tamworth for win and placings.

“The 1500m here is ideal with any luck from the draw (12). He’s a three-year-old with nice ability.

“Getting out to his right distance range this prep.”

At present Muswellbrook is a Good 4 in fine weather with a top of 33 degrees forecast for raceday

View the final fields with full form & race replays for Muswellbrook here