Richard Litt’s stable is riding a wave of confidence after Caffe Florian’s Gosford Guineas success, but it may be seasoned sprinter Barber who delivers the next thrill on New Year’s Day.
The former Godolphin galloper has flourished since joining Litt’s care in April and lines up in the Listed Canterbury Sprint (1200m) at Canterbury.
Barber will jump from barrier one in the 15-horse field, a position that adds to Litt’s confidence in the five-year-old.
“What a wonderful horse to have in the stable,” Litt said.
“He’s going very, very well and he’s been great to his owners. You know, they’re very hard races to win all the time. Those sorts of black type listed sprint races are so competitive.”
Barber has already delivered a stakes win for the stable, taking out the Listed Takeover Target Stakes (1200m) in May.
Litt said the transition from Godolphin was made smoother through existing relationships.
“We have a very good connection with Godolphin and their horses and their staff,” Litt said.
“So we always keep an eye on these horses and Monarch Racing bought him and paid a lot of money ($215,000) in December last year.”
“He’s going to pick up a couple of more wins and he’s going to be a load of fun over the next 12 to 18 months.
“We love him. We absolutely love him.”