The well bred Meteorologist (Northern Meteor x Buxom Babe) had a short but successful preperation during the winter.
Marcus Wilson had the big 18.2hh 3yo gelding in tip top order for his first up run when finishing a close 2nd over 1600m at the Sunshine Coast.
He then went on to win a 3yo QTIS race second up over 1800m at the Sunshine Coast before contesting the lead up to the QLD Derby where he had little luck. Meteorologist then won another 3yo QTIS race over 1800m this time on his home track at the Gold Coast which qualified him a start in the Group 1 QLD Derby over 2400m at Eagle Farm.
Meteorologist drew wide in gate 18 for the Derby where he had no luck after being shoved three wide for 1800m of the trip, he fought on gamely to be only beaten just over 5 lengths. The wide barrier cost him from running a place in the Group 1 event, jockey Jim Byrne said.
The rising 4yo giant will now go for a well earnt spell and will return for a preperation during the spring and summer.