Following the news that Kiwi-trained Spring Cups fancy Scarlett Lady had been ruled out of the remainder of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival, top Victorian trainer Peter Moody has this morning raised doubts that his imported New Zealand mare King’s Rose would take her spot in the 2011 Epsom Handicap field this Saturday.
King's Rose could be scratched from the 2011 Epsom Handicap field
Classy Redoute’s Choice four-year-old King’s Rose was yesterday one of 18 horses accepted for the $500,000 Group 1 Epsom Handicap (1600m) at Royal Randwick, but the in-form mare could be scratched from the race later today.
Moody noticed fitness issues with King’s Rose, who is undefeated in Australia, during her morning workout as she showed signs of typing up during her run.
Blood tests have been ordered with Moody to seek advice from his stable vet on King’s Rose before confirming her as an Epsom Handicap 2011 starter.
Winner of the Group 2 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on August 27 in her debut Australian run, King’s Rose was last seen winning the Group 2 Stocks Stakes (1600m) in a tight finish at Moonee Valley on September 10.
King’s Rose sits as the fifth favourite in the latest 2011 Epsom Handicap odds at Luxbet paying $10 to defeat the likes of George Main Stakes champion Sincero ($4.60) and Stocks Stakes runner-up Pinker Pinker ($6.50).
Moody’s decision on whether to go ahead with an Epsom start for King’s Rose may also be influenced by the mare’s barrier 18 of 18 draw for Saturday.
Stay tuned to Races.com.au throughout the week for the latest Epsom Super Saturday field and betting updates on all the features including the Epsom Handicap and The Metropolitan 2011.
In the meantime, while King’s Rose may be a doubtful starter, there are still 17 other Epsom hopefuls with odds open at Luxbet with a genuine chance of success.
So check out the Epsom Handicap odds and betting options at Luxbet today and remember, if you are a first-time depositing customer at Australia’s best bookie, quote the codeword BONUSBET to unlock your $400 bonus welcome bet!
