Schofield expects good run from Nakeeta

It has only taken one ride on Nakeeta for experienced jockey Glyn Schofield to be upbeat about his prospects aboard the Scottish-trained visitor in the Melbourne Cup.

Schofield’s best Melbourne Cup finish was a third in his first ride in the race eight years ago on Mourilyan and he hopes Nakeeta can improve on that on Tuesday.

Nakeeta is trained by Iain Jardine and has been aimed at the Melbourne Cup since winning The Ebor (2787m) at York in August.

Sydney-based Schofield has been to the Werribee quarantine centre to ride Nakeeta in trackwork leading into the Cup and is hopeful the gelding can produce a big finish at the end of the 3200m at Flemington.

“The horse has given me a bit of confidence when I worked him, so I’m pretty happy with him,” Schofield said.

“He feels in great order.

“The travel has taken nothing out of him. Iain is very happy with the way he has come through everything, now we just have to let the race start and see where we end up.”

Schofield has watched some of Nakeeta’s races to get an understanding of his racing style.

“He’s a hold-up horse who likes to relax early and chime in with a strong finish,” Schofield said.

“He’s got a bit of speed about him so hopefully we can use that speed at the end of the race, and he’ll run well.”

Jardine said Schofield was recommended to him by a friend back home.

“We wanted somebody with experience in the race,” Jardine said.

“He’s got experience riding in Australia and he’s a good jockey who has ridden plenty of winners worldwide.”