While the spotlight will be firmly fixed on the Winx Stakes clash between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi this week, the Rosehill barrier trials are also generating significant interest with several prominent horses stepping out to prepare for their comebacks.
Everest contender Headwall is scheduled for his third trial over 900 metres in the first heat, alongside notable rivals such as Beadman, Lazzura, Linebacker, Marhoona, and Skyhook.
The seven-year-old galloper has not competed since sustaining a leg injury following his victory in the Concorde Stakes (1000m) back in September of last year. Trainer Matthew Smith has opted for a measured build-up for the horse.
He was initially nominated for this weekend’s Show County Quality (1200m) at Randwick, but this entry was later withdrawn as Smith preferred to adhere to his initial strategy of targeting consecutive wins in the upcoming feature sprint.
“I put him in and had a look, but decided I didn’t really want to change tack,” Smith revealed. “I want to go to the Concorde and then go to The Shorts. He’s trialling Friday now and he’s low flying. I think he’s going better than last ‘prep’.”
A competitive field of new-season three-year-olds is set to contest the second trial, featuring the Reisling Stakes winner Chayan, Champagne Stakes placegetter Diameter, and Baillieu winner Southend. Later in the session, Todman Stakes winner Paradoxium will participate in trial six, with J J Atkins placegetter Stormy Marco appearing in the eleventh heat.
Trainer Chris Waller has nominated both Lady Shenandoah and Campione D’Italia for separate trials on Friday, though both are anticipated to race at Randwick the following day.
Lady Shenandoah is among the 14 entries for the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m), while Sires’ Produce Stakes winner Campione D’Italia will compete against older horses in the Show County Quality (1200m).
Tommy Berry, who partnered Campione D’Italia to his Skyline Stakes (1200m) triumph in February, has ridden the gelding in two recent trials and an exhibition gallop at Rosehill last weekend. He expressed his eagerness to be back aboard on race day.
“He was quite a handful (at two), but everything he’s doing this preparation so far is showing he’s matured quite a lot,” Berry commented. “I’m looking forward to seeing him do it at the races.”
The Winx Stakes is shaping up to be a highly competitive affair, with early betting markets suggesting a close contest between the leading contenders. Punters looking to get involved can explore the latest racing odds at Australian betting sites.