Outback Traveller up for the Victoria Cup

David Metcalf | May 7, 2016

Traveller looks tasty in the Victoria Cup

Outback Traveller was a big eye-catcher last time out and looks decent value to land the valuable 7f Victoria Cup at Ascot (16:15).

The gelding was generally disappointing last season following a fine reappearance when beaten just a head at Kempton off a mark of 105, but did run very well over course and distance in September when a 2 1/2 length fourth of 16 to Majestic Moon off 103.

Outback Traveller is now able to race off a reduced rating of 100, and there was lots to like about his first run for trainer Robert Cowell at Haydock last month after leaving Jeremy Noseda.

After being held-up at the rear travelling strongly, the five-year-old was denied a clear run when trying to make a move two from home before keeping on under tender handling to finish a 4 3/4 length seventh of 13 to Predominance.

Outback Traveller now meets the winer on 8lb better terms, and given how the race panned out that may well be enough to see him turn the tables.

Cowell also has a tremendous record with horses he inherits from other yards, and there is little doubt that Outback Traveller is weighted to run a huge race if building on his latest effort.

King Bolete can reign supreme on debut for Varian