While unable to figure when ninth in the Group 2 BRC Sires Produce Stakes (1350m) last time out, trainer Mick Price remains confident of success for exciting two-year-old Pressing in this weekend’s Group 1 J.J. Atkins (1600m) at Eagle Farm.

Having confirmed the Sebring colt will wear blinkers for the first time competitively in the J.J. Atkins, Price said there are plenty of positives to focus on ahead of this weekend’s headline race in Queensland for two-year-olds.

“I think we have to give him the benefit of the doubt in regards to his last run,” Price told TVN.

“Ollie (jockey Damien Oliver) got off him and said the horse was lost going that way for the first time, but the finish of his race was acceptable.

“We’ve put the blinkers on, we’ve got D. Oliver to ride from a good gate, and his work since has been terrific.

“Physically the horse is very well and I think he’ll be very competitive in this race on Saturday.”

Debuting with an impressive performance for first in the Mindy Green 2.y.o Plate (1200m) on April 12^th, Pressing more than stamped his claims for a trip north to contend major events over the 2014 Brisbane Winter Racing Carnival when charging home to claim the Listed Sky High Mt Dandenong Stakes (1200m) on May 3^rd.

While yet to decide on the next step taken with Pressing following the J.J. Atkins, Price confirmed a successful run will result in continued work, while a failure to perform is likely to lead to a return to the spelling paddock.

Allocated the ideal barrier 3 for the 2014 J.J. Atkins, Pressing is currently featured as outright third favourite for success in betting markets at a generous quote of $8.50 for success.

Strolling home to win the Group 2 Champagne Classic (1200m) on May 10^th, Brazen Beau is currently sole occupant of the top line of betting to claim the J.J. Atkins crown on Saturday at a quote of $2.05, ahead of Almalad ($4.60).

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