Floods Throw Ferdinand's Cup Hopes In Doubt

REGIONAL Victoria's extensive floods – which extend into southern NSW emanating via a 400-kilometre rain band – is set to impact on Goulburn's two premier races – the $40,000 to-the-winner Ladbrokes Cup and Goulburn Workers Club Fireball on Friday.

David Geall made the near-eight hours trek from his Lara base (near Geelong) in July with cups king Ferdinand Boy, finishing third to Casual Glance in the rich Southern Stars series.

FIELDS AND FORM GOULBURN FRIDAY

With record prize money on offer, Geall was all seet to head north with Ferdinand Boy and the smart Hill Top Jonnie but a once in 50 years weather incident is likely to curtail his NSW plans.

"The Hume Highway is awash and particularly dangerous," Goulburn Secretary Manager Patrick Day said.

"Washouts have caused significant damage to roads and cars are blowing tyres on deep ruts which are covered by water that is unable to run away.

"Dave's usual route is to head to Seymour, crossing the Goulburn River but it's expected to be impassable and alternate routes via Rochester (Campaspe River) and Broadford (Sunday Creek) are likely to be closed."

Ferdinand Boy has raced in black type company for more than 18 months, accruing 51 wins from 96 starts, accumulating just over $549,000 for the Geall family.

Ferdinand Boy was the nominal series pre-post favourite ahead of Million Dollar Chase Finalist Gatlin, Southern Stars winner Aston Barak and former Goulburn 440m record holder Mellcat Big Boy.

The 350m Workers Club Fireball, offering $25,000 to-the-winner, will be hotly contested with veteran Poppy Jack looking to notch win 29 at start 58 and his ninth at the popular track's short course journey.