Shamrocker aiming for historic double

Danny O’Brien-trained Shamrocker will go in search of a historic double as she attempts to become the first filly to achieve the AJC Australian Derby-Oaks double.

Having won the Derby last week, Shamrocker is now horse betting favourite to become the first horse to achieve the feat since Research in 1989. The second leg gets underway on Saturday at Randwick, with bookmakers reporting a surge to back Shamrocker to do the double, with one punter backing the three year old to the tune of $50,000 at £2.90

''I thought she looked worth risking at those odds but she is now in to $2.70” sportingbet chief Michael Sullivan said yesterday.

But she faces stiff competition from rival Brazilian Pulse, who despite being an outsider for Saturday’s race, was backed by a series of bets, including one for $40,000 with the odds out at almost double that of Shamrocker.

“We have a huge liability on Brazilian Pulse after taking a string of big bets including one of $40,000 at $4.80.” Sullivan commented.

Brazilian Pulse will be ridden by Craig Williams from barrier 1, and trainer Mike Moroney insisted the 3-year-old is in good shape ahead of the race despite a torrid time in the 1 vinery Stud Stakes last week, where Williams was at fault for sacrificing a large lead.

“He knows he made a mistake,'' Moroney said. ''He came in and apologised. He wanted to ride her back with cover but after she jumped so good he should have went forward.”

“The moment you come back they keep kicking up inside you.” He added.