After commencing the season strongly with a treble at Rosehill, Tim Clark is now focused on securing the inaugural Sydney stakes race of the new term with Gangsta Granny.
Clark will partner with the Hawkes Racing mare again for Saturday’s Group 2 Missile Stakes (1200m), aiming to build on his recent success.
“It was a good day last week. I got some nice winners that weren’t totally expected, so that’s always nice, and for a variety of trainers too,” Clark remarked.
The accomplished jockey’s sole previous ride on Gangsta Granny resulted in a third-place finish behind Stefi Magnetica in last year’s The Invitation (1400m).
This race remains a vivid memory for Clark, and he is eager to improve upon that performance.
“I didn’t quite have the best of luck when I rode her in The Invitation, so I’m looking to redeem that,” he stated.
“She trialled up well on Friday at Randwick. I gave her a nice hit-out there. She’s drawn soft in one, so she will get the right run.
“She’ll probably need a bit of luck at the right stages, but you know with her, every time she goes out there she is going to try her best and give her all.”
Gangsta Granny has demonstrated remarkable consistency, never finishing outside the top three in her twelve starts.
Clark attributes this reliability to her inherent toughness and the astute race planning by Team Hawkes.
While Gangsta Granny has predominantly raced against fillies and mares over the past year, achieving two Group 3 wins and five black-type placings, Clark anticipates she can handle competing against males in the Missile Stakes (1200m).
“She’s a strong mare and obviously the Hawkes team have placed her really well throughout her career,” Clark commented.
“Now is the time to test her at that little bit better level to see where she measures up.
“It’s always nice to get the call up to ride one of their horses because invariably, they’re in the right races. They do place them well, and I’m looking forward to teaming up with them on Saturday.”
On Thursday, Angel Capital was the $2.60 favourite for the Missile Stakes, with Gangsta Granny priced at $3.80 and Ninja at $3.90.
For those looking to back Gangsta Granny, checking out the latest Australian betting sites could provide the best odds.
