Trainer Kris Lees is following a proven strategy for Bestower’s upcoming challenge in the Caloundra Cup, mirroring the conditions of her most recent victory.
The five-year-old mare last saluted at Warwick Farm in December, competing over 2400 metres after a 10-day break between runs.
Now, she is slated to contest the Listed staying feature at the Sunshine Coast this Saturday, just a week after securing fourth place in the Tattersall’s Gold Crown (2100m) at Eagle Farm. Lees is optimistic about repeating past success.
“She has raced on a ten day turnaround and won, so this is slightly tighter,” Lees said.
“But she’s come through the 2100 metre race on Saturday well. They just didn’t go quick enough for her. It was a small field and a slack speed, but she hit the line nicely.”
“Whether she’s up to the grade is the question, but it’s good prizemoney and a good chance for her, and she will be suited by the big track.”
With a record of three wins from 31 starts, Bestower is not a frequent winner but consistently performs well.
She has finished in the placings an additional 13 times and has only missed a top-five finish on four occasions.
Lees anticipates a strong showing from Bestower, starting from barrier one in the Caloundra Cup (2400m), provided the race pace is genuine.
“She has a good finish if she gets the right tempo up front,” he said.
The stable also has the promising three-year-old Rustemo entered in the Group 3 Winx Guineas (1600m), following an impressive streak of three consecutive wins to commence his campaign.
While those victories were in lower-grade races, Lees is keen to test Rustemo in stronger company while he is in such good form.
“He has come a long way this preparation,” he said.
“He ran about four seconds last time in and he’s put three wins together, so he has been very consistent.”
“It’s a huge jump in grade for him from a Sunday race, so we’re under no illusions there, but there’s big prizemoney attached, and he has won at the track.”
Rustemo has secured an advantageous barrier three draw, with Michael Rodd booked to ride.
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