Zac Lloyd approaches the Silver Slipper with greater optimism regarding Hidrix compared to before the colt’s initial appearance in the Canonbury Stakes.
The rider had not partnered the Extreme Choice youngster during any barrier trials leading up to his debut, and he conceded that the Chris Waller team took a cautious stance in early evaluations since the horse faced no real stress in training.
“No-one overwhelmed me with confidence before the race because he’s a very casual customer at trackwork,” Lloyd said.
“But he got a lovely run and that enabled him to sprint well, and he did win quite comfortably.
“Hopefully he has switched on mentally from that and can race well again on Saturday.
“He couldn’t have been more impressive.”
Propelled into joint favouritism for the Golden Slipper after his showing in the Canonbury Stakes (1100m), Hidrix occupies the next tier of odds for the upcoming Silver Slipper (1100m) at Rosehill, listed at $4.40.
Tulloch Lodge filly Shiki along with Confederation, who placed second in the Canonbury Stakes, lead the market at $4, with top jockey James McDonald opting to stick with the latter after riding the colt in his first outing where he persisted despite several errors.
Michael Freedman’s Incognito went off as the odds-on elect in the Canonbury Stakes yet ended up fifth after a post-race check revealed a displaced palate.
The trainer has implemented fixes to avoid the problem repeating, and the Breeders’ Plate victor will sport a tongue control device and lugging bit this Saturday.
Explore the racing betting markets for the Silver Slipper Stakes at Australian betting sites.