Michael Freedman is relying on Ninja’s capacity to position himself close to the pace as a vital factor for his prospects in the Group One Randwick Guineas.
In contrast to two of his primary opponents, Autumn Boy and Attica, who typically start from further back, Ninja demonstrated his adaptability during the Hobartville Stakes (1400m) by staying just behind the frontrunner before surging clear to a convincing victory.
Saturday marks Ninja’s initial attempt at the mile distance, but being by a So You Think mare, Freedman sees no downside in exploring whether the three-year-old can extend his talent.
“He has never been tried at it, and there is only one way to find out,” Freedman said.
“His racing style, where he can sit handy if needs be, that’s a big advantage.
I’ve got no more insight into whether he’ll run it out or not, but he will certainly run well.
He’s been very full of himself and right on his feed, so I’m happy to press on.”
Ninja is set to have company from stablemate Decorum in the contest, the latter having secured back-to-back midweek triumphs at Warwick Farm to qualify for the event.
Freedman anticipates that Decorum might struggle against some of the top fancies on Saturday, yet views the outing as a potential springboard to middle-distance targets during the carnival.
Options like the Rosehill Guineas (2000m) and Tulloch Stakes (2000m) are on the table for Decorum, along with an entry in the ATC Australian Derby (2400m).
“It’s a stepping stone perhaps to something else over a bit further for him, but it gives us a look at him against some of the better quality horses,” Freedman said.
Victorian Sheza Alibi has shortened to $2.50 favourite for the Randwick Guineas, overtaking Autumn Boy at $2.90 in the market, with Ninja third at $5.50 and Decorum priced at $10.
Sheza Alibi is targeting a historic result as the first filly to claim the race since Mosheen back in 2012.
Explore the Australian betting sites for top racing odds ahead of the Randwick Guineas.