Following Attrition’s recent triumph in the Hill Stakes, Mitchell Freedman is preparing for another significant foray into Sydney racing, this time with the accomplished sprinter Skybird.
Attrition secured the Rosehill feature for a second occasion last weekend, overcoming the seasoned Lindermann. This Saturday, stablemate Skybird will have her opportunity to make a mark in the prestigious $2 million Sydney Stakes (1200m) at Randwick.
Although the mare has drawn the widest gate, barrier 18, she is expected to encounter a rain-affected racing surface. Conditions were rated a heavy 8 on Wednesday after 66mm of rain in the preceding 24 hours, with further showers anticipated.
Skybird demonstrated her capability on similar ground when she won the Gilgai Stakes (1200m) at Flemington last start. Earlier this year, she finished a length behind Everest contenders Joliestar and Giga Kick on a wet track in the T J Smith Stakes (1200m).
Both Skybird and Attrition have been outstanding representatives for Freedman’s stable. Attrition has accumulated over $4.3 million from 33 starts, and Skybird’s earnings will surpass the $2 million mark if she secures a top-two finish at Randwick.
“It’s a good ride to be on at the moment with these two horses, that’s for sure,” Freedman commented. “With a small team in Ballarat and my team around me, we punch well above our weight.”
Freedman will be closely monitoring the track conditions throughout the week before confirming Skybird’s participation. Her primary target remains the upcoming Champions Sprint (1200m) at Flemington next month.
Nevertheless, he has been extremely pleased with her progress since her Gilgai Stakes victory on October 3. Notably, Ben Melham has been secured to ride Skybird in the Sydney Stakes, having partnered the mare in her last two outings.
“She couldn’t be better. She’s really holding her form and really sound at the moment,” Freedman stated. A substantial field of 16 runners plus four emergencies has been entered for the Sydney Stakes (1200m). In what appears to be a wide-open contest, Overpass and Charm Stone are co-favourites at $7, with Skybird positioned as a strong contender at $8.50.
Considering the competitive field for the Sydney Stakes, placing a bet on the early market leaders with Australian betting sites could be a wise move.
