But Australia’s only representative at the annual series was prepared for such a result at half-time.

From seven rides, the Melbourne rider earned points at his first ride only, aboard Rasta Rebel in the opener, the Bonny Air Travel Trophy (1650m) – four points for a narrow second place.

The race looked all stitched up when the 3-1 second favourite burst through a gap at the 200m, but the winner Chester’s Wish (Manuel Martinez) snuck up on the inside to pip him by a head.

After such a promising start, Dunn was, however, unable to improve the score further (points given up to fourth place). He currently shares the last place with French jockey Aurelien Lemaitre and Brazilian jockey Manoel Nunes, with seven more races set down for decision on Sunday.

Current leader is two-time IJW winner Maxime Guyon from France on 28 points, courtesy of a hat-trick of wins in the last three races of the eight-race programme – Rap Attack, Varside and Good Buddy.

Dunn remained upbeat he had not used his best bullets yet.

“It wasn’t too bad. I just missed in the first, and the other horses weren’t drawn so good,” he said.

“Anyway, I was told all along my better rides are for tomorrow. At least, I know the track better now.”

Based on the local market, Dunn’s best rides on Sunday are Starsky (Race 1) and Horse Guards (Race 6).

The standings after Leg 1 is as follows: