Orlando Chasing ‘Moore' Meadows Maiden Magic

TRAINER Lee Moore has resisted the temptation to sell Orlando ahead of Saturday night’s Group 3 GRV Vic Bred Maiden Final at The Meadows.

Adam Dobbin26 February 2021

TRAINER Lee Moore has resisted the temptation to sell his promising sprinter Orlando ahead of Saturday night's Group 3 GRV Vic Bred Maiden Final (525m) at The Meadows.

The son of Fabregas and Dewana Dimie heads into the $25,000-to-the-winner finale as the impressive winner of his heat and semi-final in 30.07 and 29.98, performances which has seen Moore field some sizable offers for the exciting prospect.

"Had it been 15 years ago with four kids still at home I might have sold him but for where I'm at now I'll hold onto him," Moore said.

"The offers have been very good without being extraordinary. But providing he stays fit and healthy I think we are going to have a lot of fun with him. He's heading in the right direction."

Just 20 months of age, Orlando will exit box eight in Saturday night's finale, the same draw he negotiated en route to his slick 29.98 semi-final success.

"I would have preferred the inside but he handled the pink well last start, the outside is definitely better than drawing the middle," Moore said.

"He's shown so far he's very sensible. He doesn't overdo things and makes good decisions and he's very strong as well. Right from the start that's what stood out with him – his run home times."

Orlando is a product of Moore's decision to lease brood Dewana Dimie from Brendan Dewan and breed this litter to Fabregas.

A decision beginning to pay dividends.

"The litter broke in well but in the last month or two Orlando has really gone on with it," Moore said.

"After his first trial at The Meadows for this series I came home a bit dejected but the next go he improved six lengths. And that's continued, he just keeps improving."

Saturday night's maiden finale brings together a strong field of youngsters without boasting any superstars.

"But that could change on Saturday night," Moore said.

"It wouldn't surprise if something really jumped out in the final. As long as my bloke handles himself well and gives himself a chance I'll be happy.

"If he's good enough he's good enough. If not we'll move on pretty quickly."

The other semi-final winner last Wednesday was won by Mepunga Freda in 30.06.

Jeff Britton and Angela Langton will line-up four of the eight finalists for the $25,000-to-the-winner feature.