PICK OF THE DRAW BRINGS WERTHER INTO COX PLATE MIX

When he was called to the stage to pick a barrier for Young Werther in the 2022 Ladbrokes Cox Plate, part-owner Adam Lennen had a blank canvas.

By being drawn out first, Lennen was able to pick from all 12 barriers in the great race and he settled on Gate 2. 

Trainer Danny O'Brien was thrilled with the result. 

"You always need some luck in these big races, but we couldn't ask for any more than to be jumping from barrier 2 in what looks like it could be a high pressure Cox Plate," O'Brien said. 

"He should get a lovely spot in running without having to do any work and if the speed is on and the breaks come his way, he will be finding the line late."

See below for Horsebetting.com.au summary of Young Werther's chances:

8. YOUNG WERTHER (2)
5yoG | T: Danny O’Brien | J: Damian Lane (59kg)

The Danny O’Brien-trained Young Werther is another who has not tasted success since claiming his maiden success over two years ago, but ironically a case could be made for him in a race like this. He may not be a genuine winning chance, but more a trifecta/first four player based on his efforts in recent times at Group 1 level. He has placed in four of his five runs at the highest level and comes to this third-up from a spell. He was held for a run at a crucial point in the Turnbull Stakes last time out and deserved to finish closer than what his 1.6-length defeat suggested. Just four runs ago he was beaten a half-length by Incentivise, pictured, and if Young Werther brings an effort like that to Cox Plate, he could prove to be a knockout hope.

Pic by Racing Photos