Trainers hoping J-Mac can get best out of classy Getafix

Getafix’s record hasn’t quite caught up with his potential just yet – but after a short recess, co-trainer Tom Charlton says the grey has his chance to show his best form at Kensington today.

It’s been about seven weeks since Getafix finished midfield in the Hawkesbury Guineas and his absence has been a mix of a “slightly off blood picture” shortly after that race and unfavourable barriers in intended races.

Charlton and co-trainer John O’Shea have a strong hand in the TAB Handicap (1300m) with Metaphorically also lining up, but it’s Getafix who has had reasonably high expectations attached to him since an impressive debut Kensington track win last year.

“He’s definitely got well above average potential, he’s just not the most consistent horse looking at his racing record,” Charlton said. “Whether he’s still getting there in developing remains to be seen.”

The three-year-old has won twice from his 10 starts.

James McDonald has been called on to ride Getafix and the race represents a huge class drop on his last start at group 3 level, but he has to carry 61.5kg.

“He’s a big horse, so weight doesn’t worry us too much, especially since he’s a horse with a good bit of class to him,” Charlton said.

“We like the draw, and he can definitely bounce back. He just wants a nice tempo, to be buried away and come with one crack at them late.”

Stablemate Metaphorically will be part of that speed picture as he has a natural on pace pattern and Charlton said his first-up third at Canterbury earlier this month was a nice start to his campaign.