James McDonald won’t be racing in Saturday’s Silver Slipper Stakes, but he’s eager to stay connected with the action.
McDonald’s star colt, Wodeton, trained by Chris Waller, is eyeing the Group 1 Golden Slipper after impressing with a debut win at Rosehill on January 18.
McDonald’s commitment to Romantic Warrior in the Saudi Cup keeps him away, allowing Kerrin McEvoy to ride Wodeton in the 1100-metre Group 2 at Rosehill, but McDonald is still excited about the race.
Wodeton faces stiff competition with 16 other entries, including North England and Bel Merci.
“Out of the top four in the (Golden Slipper) market, three of them are going to be there, so it will be good,” McDonald said.
“Wodeton is really well. He’s had a month between runs and a mid-prep tick-over trial, so he’s spot on.”
Wodeton trialled at Warwick Farm last Tuesday, finishing fourth despite not being fully pushed.
The colt is a $3.20 favourite for the Golden Slipper, ahead of North England and Bel Merci, both on $11.
Bel Merci won her debut in the Group 3 Gimcrack Stakes (1000m) and impressed in a recent trial, while North England, winner of the Golden Gift, is in strong form.
Other notable entries include West Of Swindon, Beiwacht, Devil Night, and Gambler, who has been fast in recent trials.
The Silver Slipper Stakes is one of the key events on Saturday, alongside the Hobartville Stakes (1400m), where Broadsiding returns, with Zac Lloyd taking over from McDonald for the ride.