The promising mare Gatwick has put herself in contention for Stakes races following a gutsy front-running performance to win Saturday’s Ranvet Handicap (1200m) at Rosehill.
Trained by Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr, the mare secured her second victory in her last three outings, leading from start to finish under Zac Lloyd and showing determination to fend off her rivals.
Gatwick, the $2.70 favourite, narrowly defeated Ernaux ($9) by a short neck, with Kwirky Smile ($5.50) finishing a distant 5¾ lengths further back in third.
Stable representative Ben Elam lauded the mare’s resilience and Lloyd’s astute ride, suggesting the race was effectively decided shortly after the gates opened.
“She was dynamic out of the gates, and it was probably won in the first part of the race,” Elam said.
“She is by Ole Kirk, so I always thought she’d run it out strongly. Even though she did a little bit in the early stages, he got a breather midrace, and she toughed it out well.
“Back on better footing for her, she showed that dynamic little turn of foot she’s got, and then she sustains that speed, which is crucial.”
Gatwick’s campaign has been carefully managed, with her runs spaced since her April return. Elam indicated the stable would now consider whether to continue racing her while she holds a fitness advantage over many competitors.
This approach could lead to the mare contesting an early-season black-type race if a suitable opportunity arises.
“She’s a horse we’ve always had a good opinion of, and it’s an interesting time of year,” Elam said.
“She’s rock-hard fit and there are probably some lower grade stakes races that might pop up where she’s the rock-hard fit horse, and there are some more proven horses returning from a break.
“There is a little bit to ponder there… it’s a good problem to have when you’ve got a progressive horse like this.”
This period also looks to be a significant one for the Price and Kent stable, as their Golden Rose hopeful Guest House is scheduled to reappear in a Warwick Farm barrier trial on Tuesday.
The Golden Slipper Stakes winner completed his final preparation gallop at Rosehill on Saturday morning in readiness for his trial and the upcoming spring campaign.
“He had his final gallop here (at Rosehill) this morning on the course proper and went through his gears really nicely,” Elam said.
“I’m looking forward to getting him back to the trials where we can let him do a little bit more.”
Early spring feature race markets are available through Australia’s leading Top 10 Betting Apps.
Gatwick’s impressive win puts her firmly in the frame for upcoming feature races, and you can explore the latest racing odds at Australian betting sites.
