Phelan Ready for 2014 Eye Liner Stakes

Producing an exceptional performance in a testing barrier trial by more than four lengths last Thursday, trainer Jason McLachlan has confirmed it is all systems go, and is confident of a polished performance from Phelan Ready in this weekend’s Listed Eye Liner Stakes (1350m) in Ipswich.

Phelan Ready will have to find top gear if to overcome a talented field that includes Black Cash (pictured) in the 2014 Eye Liner Stakes. Photo: Race Horse Photos Australia

Refusing to load into the barriers for the Group 2 QTC Cup (1300m) at Eagle Farm two weeks ago, Queensland Racing stewards promptly banned Phelan Ready from competitive events, until the seven-year-old until he could successfully pass a barrier test.

Instantly regaining his ability to enter race events when strolling home last Thursday, McLachlan told AAP he was particularly pleased with the More Than Ready gelding’s performance and is excited by his chances from barrier 8 this weekend.

“It was good work and he really has impressed me since he came back in,” McLachlan said.

“What he got into his mind when he wouldn’t go in the barriers; who knows. He has never done it before in 46 starts.”

A standout performer over his two-year-old season in 2009, Phelan Ready strolled home to win the Magic Millions 2.y.o Handicap (1200m) with ease before repeating the dose in the featured Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m) at Rosehill Gardens.

Securing more than $3.5 million in prize money over his career, the gelding out of Nancy Eleanor has surprisingly been unable to find the finishing line in the clear over all starts since winning the Golden Slipper; now spanning 41 appearances on course and an amazing 62 months.

Finishing seventh in the 2013 edition of the Eye Liner Stakes, Phelan Ready has continued to produce some impressive results over the last few years, finishing fourth in the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) and fifth in the Group 1 Doomben 10,000 (1350m) most notably in 2013.

Confirmed to be partnered by regular jockey Eddie Wilkinson this weekend, Phelan Ready is currently offered at generous $12 odds for success in the Eye Liner Stakes at leading online bookie Ladbrokes.com.au.

Allocated the ideal inside barrier, Black Cash is currently sole occupant of the top line of betting for success in the Eye Liner Stakes at a quote of $4.60, ahead of Masthead ($5.50), Into The Red ($6) and Alma’s Fury ($10).

Ladbrokes.com.au is currently offering the best odds on all events in Ipswich this weekend, including the Listed Eye Liner Stakes!