Aaron Bazeley believes Circular Quay can break the Dan Morton dominance and turn the tables on Big Josh in the Global Communications Services Handicap (1600m) at Kalgoorlie on Sunday.
The pair fought out a tenacious tussle last fortnight with Big Josh gaining the honours when he ran on powerfully from the back of the field to get over the top of Circular Quay by a long-head margin.
Big Josh maintained his form and successfully backed up with another strong finishing performance last week, the first-leg of a winning treble for the Morton stable.
Big Josh, to be ridden by Kyra Yuill, will lump 57kg and commence from barrier three with Circular Quay on his outside in four and to carry 56kg for Misty Bazeley.
“There is a 2 ½ weight swing to Circular Quay which could prove a telling factor,” said Bazeley.
“There wasn’t much between them last time and I have no fears meeting him again.
“My horse is in pretty good form and was a good winner the start prior.
“I’m confident he will produce another forward showing.”
Morton will also saddle consistent gelding Hussation who is racing in stellar form and has won two races and been placed on four occasions in nine starts this preparation.
Stable mate Snuff Gruffles in the last, the Apex Drilling Handicap (1100m), could complete another top day for the Morton team.
The Testa Rossa mare will have claims after finishing a long-neck second to the red-hot Wild Champagne last week.
Wild Champagne, prepared by Bazeley, is experiencing a top campaign and has finished no further back than fourth with four wins from five starts.
The Ihtiram gelding, formerly with Christine Stelmach in Bunbury, has rediscovered his zest for racing, but Bazeley concedes the four-year-old will face a stern challenge in the Bliss Cafe Handicap (1100m).
“This is his toughest test to date against a good field and with 59.5kg,” said Bazeley.
“But he gets the run of the race from barrier one and winning form is good form.
“Massivo and Saxapak have been racing well and can’t be discounted.”
Bazeley has cautioned supporters not to discount Toss’N’Spin in the Boc Mining Supplies Handicap (1600m).
“He never runs a bad race and is always around the mark,” said Bazeley.
“This is not an overly strong race and he can play a part in the finish with surprising.”
Toss’N’Spin has had six starts this preparation for one second, four fourths and a fifth placing.