For young Queensland trainer James Healy, Arabian Rose has already proven to be a fairytale acquisition, and her story could reach new heights with a victory in the $2 million The Invitation at Randwick.

Healy, based on the Sunshine Coast, secured Arabian Rose for a mere $7000 via Inglis’ digital auction. Since then, the mare has triumphed in six of her thirteen starts, including the Listed Glasshouse Handicap (1400m) at her home track in July. Her most recent outing saw her finish a close second to Gerringong, a rival in Saturday’s contest, in The Nivison (1200m).

This performance secured her entry into The Invitation (1400m). A win here would undoubtedly stand as a career pinnacle for Healy, who honed his skills with Ciaron Maher and David Eustace in Melbourne before establishing his own stable approximately six years ago.

“If she was to win, it would be a massive thrill, and who knows where it could take her?” Healy remarked.

“It has always been a two-run preparation whichever way we went, whether it was the Invitation or down to Melbourne. I’d say she’d go straight home (after Saturday) and have a spell. She has sort of done her job already this ‘prep’ getting a Group Three placing to her name and we can set her for the winter. I’d love to win a Stradbroke with her.”

“We bought her online on Inglis Digital for $7000, so she has been a great buy.”

Arabian Rose benefits from an advantageous barrier three draw. Healy indicated that she will be fitter for her initial run, where she appeared to reach her peak in the closing stages.

Both horse and trainer have remained in Sydney, and Healy is confident in her readiness for Saturday’s challenge.

“She derived a lot of benefit from the run, the 1400 is going to suit, and it looks like she’ll get some soft ground,” Healy stated.

“We’re going into the race full of confidence, and I’m confident she can run top three on Saturday.”

While Tommy Berry is set to pilot topweight Lazzura for Chris Waller, Tiffani Brooker will partner Arabian Rose once more, having guided her to victory in the Glasshouse Handicap.

The mare is currently priced at $19 in the early markets, which are led by Lazzura at $3.20. Gerringong, the horse that defeated Arabian Rose in The Nivison, is a $4 chance and carries one kilogram more against Arabian Rose at the weights.

For those looking to back a runner in The Invitation, exploring Australian betting sites could provide the best odds.