Chris Waller’s ambition to secure an early victory in Sydney’s premier three-year-old contests may hinge on the colt Central Europe, as his two other contenders for The Rosebud are uncertain to participate.
The topweight, Hidrix, is likely to be saved for the San Domenico Stakes, scheduled in two weeks, following his draw of barrier 17. Meanwhile, the Perth filly Striking Alibi might be rerouted to the Silver Shadow Stakes next week, having drawn gate 12.
“We were probably only going to run (Hidrix) if he drew perfectly, just because of the weight,” Waller’s assistant trainer, Charlie Duckworth, stated.
“Striking Alibi has been really sharp in all of her work since coming to us. She has been pretty pushbutton in terms of she has settled in well and done everything right.
“Just the draw might mean she could wait and go against the fillies next week instead.”
Conversely, there are no doubts about commencing Central Europe’s three-year-old campaign, with the colt drawing barrier seven.
The Frankel colt has demonstrated considerable talent in his two career starts, both in Group company. This included a close second to his stablemate, Campione D’Italia, who later won the ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes, in the Skyline Stakes (1200m) back in February.
Although he is anticipated to perform better over longer distances than the 1100m of The Rosebud, the stable’s confidence has been bolstered by champion jockey James McDonald. He has persuaded them to opt for the Listed sprint over a less prestigious support race on the same program.
“We had him nominated in the 1300 as well but James was confident off his trials and trackwork that 1100 was fine. He’s been sharper than he was last time in, so that’s a positive,” Duckworth explained.
“He’s a beautiful colt, incredibly well bred. We’ll learn a bit more on Saturday.”
Should Central Europe perform well in his initial races, he is on track for the Golden Rose, for which he is currently fourth favourite at $11.
Four horses, Tornado Valley, Outspan, Oh Yes She Did, and Scintillation, have been withdrawn from The Rosebud and are expected to compete in stakes races at Caulfield.
Should Central Europe prove his class in The Rosebud, he could be challenging for the prestigious Golden Rose, with current odds of $11 making him a strong contender. You can find the best racing odds at Australian betting sites.
