Despite a less-than-convincing appearance in the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington last weekend, leading trainer Mick Price has confirmed classy mare Samaready will press on with original autumn plans, rather than immediately returning to the spelling paddock.
Samaready has drifted in betting markets ahead of the 2014 T.J. Smith Stakes. Photo: Race Horse Photos Australia
Figuring as a leading chance in betting markets for Newmarket success prior to the race, Samaready was unable to match the pace of her classy opponents and finished well off the pace in sixth.
While initially concerned the talented More Than Ready mare had suffered an injury-mid race, Price told RSN she has pulled up fine and could not explain the poor run.
“She’s pulled up perfectly” Price said earlier this week.
“I wanted her scored after the race and she scoped up clean.
“She was perfectly ridden and I don’t know, she was a no show and maybe sixth was the best she could have done.
“She’s perfectly sound, she looks great and she left a double handful of feed on Sunday.”
Having included Samaready in nominations for several approaching events, Price said the likely course for the four-year-old will be the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) on March 21st (1200m) before a likely trip with in-form stable mate Lankan Rupee to the T.J Smith Stakes (1200m).
“We’re thinking we’ll go to the William Reid with her in the hope that she’ll be better around a corner, maybe the straight six just dragged the sprint out of her, I don’t know” Price added.
“I did have a plan to give Lankan Rupee seven to ten days in the paddock, which I’m probably going to stick to, but it is tempting to go to the William Reid with him too before he goes to Sydney.”
Having been unable to match the late place of her talented opponents last weekend, Samaready has drifted in early betting markets for the 2014 T.J. Smith Stakes, and can now be taken at a generous quote of $9 behind outright favourite Zoustar ($3.60), Not Listenin’tome ($4.80), Lankan Rupee ($5.50) and Buffering ($6.50).
Ladbrokes.com.au is currently offering the best odds on all 2014 Autumn races, including the Group 1 T.J. Smith Stakes!
Open an account at Ladbrokes.com.au today and Bet Better!
