Melbourne Cup winning jockey Michelle Payne and brother Patrick have two runners in the feature race at Warrnambool today for the Jericho Cup – the second-favourite Split and outsider Nassak Diamond.

Nassak Diamond won this race two years ago, while his six-year-old stablemate is looking for his first win in this country Cup.

Patrick Payne is confident that the duo has their horses peaking in fitness for this $304,000 benchmark race, especially their gelding who is in the market.

“We’re confident that they will be peaking on the day, especially Split,” Payne told RSN’s Correct Weight.

“This is the fittest we’ve had him this preparation, he’s going really well.

“Nassak Diamond had a slight hormonal issue about three weeks ago, so she has missed a lead up, but appearance wise she does look very fit and well.”

Regarding where the stablemates will settle in the race, Payne revealed that they have multiple options with Split but need to stick to a plan for the former Jericho Cup winner.

“(Split) is quite one-paced, but he doesn’t need to be a bunny,” Payne said.

“Tommy Ryan (jockey) will just rate him, if he gets away with it easily that’s fine, but otherwise we are happy to follow the speed, if necessary.

“I think the best thing to do with (Nassak Diamond) is ride her quiet, hopefully she cuts the corner properly when they turn and then come into it.”

When asked about his best chance overall across both the Warrnambool and Traralgon races today, Payne admitted that the son of Turn Me Loose is his best chance.

“I’m extremely happy the way Split’s going,” the trainer revealed.

“Whether he’s good enough to win or not, I’m not sure, I’m not a form student.

“But he will run up to his best.”

Split is currently $4.50 with Sportsbet, while Payne’s other runner Nassak Diamond is $18.

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