La Amistad appeared on track for a return to the winner’s circle before failing to produce anything of a turn of foot at Morphettville last weekend, but trainer Wayne Hawkes is hopeful the mare will produce over two miles in Saturday’s Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes at Flemington.
Trainer Wayne Hawkes is hopeful of an improved La Amistad in Saturday’s Andrew Ramsden Stakes. Photo: Steve Hart
Having jumped from the gates well, jockey Todd Pannell delivered a gem of a ride on La Amistad in the Listed Japan Trophy (2500m) to have the mare in perfect position rounding onto the final straight; however the younger sister of Makybe Diva failed to respond when the hoop asked for an extra effort and faded for sixth.
Hawkes told Racing Ahead the team was very disappointed with La Amistad’s effort in the final straight last start, but have been pleased with the mare’s condition and are hopeful she will find an ideal running distance in the 2015 Andrew Ramsden Stakes.
“Disappointed with her the other day … It was her best chance,” Hawkes said.
“Todd Pannell gave her the most beautiful ride and she came to the 600 and I thought it’s all over here, she’s only just got to improve and bit and just run home how she can and she didn’t.
“She sort of whacked away and we were quite disappointed with her, because she was just going to run there, hopefully win and go to the paddock.
“That’s why we thought we’ll back her up on Saturday.
“She’s travelled back from Adelaide well.”
La Amistad was set for the Melbourne Cup in 2014 but failed to make the field for the nation’s headline race following an inconsistent string on results over the Spring Carnival.
With a long view towards the 2015 edition of the Race That Stops a Nation, Hawkes said the team will use results of the 2015 Andrew Ramsden Stakes to decide if she will again target the race.
“I reckon this Saturday will really sort us out and obviously give us a look at a two mile race,” he said.
“There is no excuse for her on Saturday.”
Posting five wins and as many minors over her 20 career starts so far, La Amistad has been confirmed to be partnered by champion jockey Damien Oliver and will carry just 55.kgs in the 2015 Andrew Ramsden Stakes.
Ladbrokes.com.au is currently offering the best 2015 Andrew Ramsden Stakes odds, for which La Amistad can be taken at a generous quote of $9 for success.
