Trainer Bjorn Baker acknowledges the considerable task facing Unleeshing as the mare prepares for her inaugural Group 1 contest.
Unleeshing will not only be competing at the elite level for the first time in the Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday but will also be venturing outside of New South Wales for her maiden start.
The five-year-old Dundeel mare, boasting five victories from 14 career starts, had largely remained under the radar until a commanding performance saw her claim the Group 3 Angst Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on October 17, her most recent appearance.
Earlier in her current campaign, Unleeshing secured second place in two benchmark 78 races before demonstrating her class by winning a benchmark 94 event while carrying less weight, preceding her Angst Stakes triumph.
Baker indicated that Unleeshing has always been a mare the stable held in high regard, emphasizing the need to progress her career carefully.
It was only following her win in the Angst Stakes at her last start that the decision was finalised to send her to Melbourne.
“She’s a mare that we’ve always had a lot of time for,” Baker stated.
“She’s always shown a heap of ability, and it was good to see her win last time.
“It’s a massive leap to be taking on the Empire Rose, but she’s got a lovely racing pattern, get back, settle and when they quicken up, she can definitely hit the line.
“She had to win the Angst, and win well, which she did, so that gives us a bit of confidence to head down.”
Jason Collett, who guided the mare to victory in the Angst Stakes, will travel to Melbourne on Saturday to ride Unleeshing.
Collett is also scheduled to partner other Baker-trained runners on the day, including Disneck in the Rising Fast Stakes (1200m), Pericles in the Damien Oliver (1400m), and Paradoxium in the Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m). Additionally, he will ride Chris Waller’s True Tone in the Victoria Derby (2500m).
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