IMPROVING freshman Just Jimmy has returned to top form at the right time.
Racing in consistent fashion for trainer Sharon Newman, Just Jimmy won two races before performing well-below his best a fortnight ago.
Back at Globe Derby last night, the son of Rock N Roll World captured a Golden Nursery heat to declare himself one of the main chances in next week's Final.
"He went super," Newman said. "I'm thrilled with his run.
"He hadn't raced for a month and wasn't 100 per cent fit last time, but he had worked well during the week, so I expected a much better showing.
"Last night will top him off for the Final, now we'll just have to see where he draws.
"With four fillies in the race, the best he can get is five, which won't make it easy."
Driven by visiting Victorian reinsman Michael Bellman, Just Jimmy was settled in the perfect one-one position as Open The Gates led and Steam Machine worked in the 'death seat'.
Finishing strongly along the home straight, Just Jimmy completed a two-metre win from the pacemaker, with Steam Machine battling on for third.
Rating 1:59.6 over 1800 metres, the two-year-old took his record to three wins and four seconds from 12 starts.
"Sharni (Newman) usually drives him, but was working last night and suggested we get Michael to take the drive," Newman said. "Michael has driven for us in the past, so he was a good option.
"Hopefully Michael will be available to drive him again in the Final."
