Adjudicate bounced back to winning form at Warracknabeal on Saturday, April 4, an early Easter present for his owners.

After some below-average performances early on this campaign, Adjudicate benefited from stepping back up to 2000 metres and the application of blinkers. Trainer Mitch Freedman said, “He is a very casual operator who only does what he needs to. We were frustrated with his early performances and had to go back to the jump-outs, where he actually performed quite well leading into this race.”

Ridden by Will Gordon, Adjudicate enjoyed a nice run in transit, settling one-out, one-back in a small, tactical field, which ensured he stayed competitive and engaged throughout. As the tempo increased, Gordon had his work cut out, but Adjudicate kept responding, grinding his way past his rivals and pulling away in the last 50m.

With improved fitness now on his side, the stable is confident Adjudicate can continue to build his rating and enjoy a successful winter campaign. “He appreciates softer ground, so he looks well placed to hopefully win a few more this preparation,” Freedman added.

Congratulations to McGrath Racing and all involved with Adjudicate on his second career victory.