Archibald and co-trainer Annabel Neasham are eager to welcome back Amelia’s Jewel in the Guy Walter Stakes (1400m), hoping for an elusive victory.
After transferring to Archibald and Neasham’s care a year ago, Amelia’s Jewel raced well but never managed to land a decisive win. She competed five times in Sydney and Melbourne, finishing no worse than fifth and adding three minor black-type placings to her record.
In her debut for the new trainers, Amelia’s Jewel finished second in the Tramway (1400m) and repeated the effort in the Golden Pendant (1400m). She was narrowly defeated by Atishu in the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) at Flemington.
Archibald reports that after two solid trials, Amelia’s Jewel is well-prepared for her first-up run against eight rivals in the Guy Walter Stakes.
“She looks fantastic and hasn’t missed a beat,” Archibald said. “Two good trials, and everyone is happy with her.”
He added, “We’re certainly expecting a good first-up run on Saturday.”
There are no set plans for Amelia’s Jewel beyond the Guy Walter Stakes, though Archibald noted several options, including the Coolmore and the Doncaster.
James McDonald takes the reins for the first time on Amelia’s Jewel, who will start from barrier eight.
“We’ll see how we go on Saturday; that will tell us more,” Archibald said. “She goes there in excellent order.”
The Guy Walter Stakes also features West Australian talent, with Alsephina returning after a successful Melbourne campaign last year. Trained by Grant and Alana Williams, Alsephina claimed the Group 2 Stock Stakes (1514m) at Moonee Valley and sits as a strong contender at $3.90, with Amelia’s Jewel the $2.40 favourite.
Alsephina has drawn barrier five, with Kerryn McEvoy aboard.