Appin Girl to ride wave of emotion in Goldmarket Handicap 2025

Trainer Matt Hoysted is hoping Appin Girl can turn her recent disappointment into a meaningful win for her connections on Friday night.

The filly’s owner, Howard Blight, passed away on Wednesday morning. However, a bittersweet moment followed just hours later when another of Blight’s horses, three-year-old Headhunter, claimed victory at Doomben.

“It would be special for the family if Appin Girl could do the same,” Hoysted said as the filly prepares to contest the Listed Goldmarket Handicap (1600m) at Gold Coast.

Originally, the plan was for Appin Girl to compete in the lucrative Magic Millions race for fillies and mares last Friday. However, her luckless run in the Listed Nudgee Stakes (1200m) at Eagle Farm saw her miss the wildcard needed to qualify for the $1 million event. She finished last in a field of 15.

“She was completely luckless,” Hoysted explained. “That was our race to win to try and get her in, but it wasn’t meant to be. She virtually went to the line untested, so as you’d expect, she’s come through the run really well, and she’s nice and fit.

“We had to keep her ticking along nice and happy, which she definitely seems to be.”

Hoysted is optimistic that the fair track pattern seen at the Gold Coast last week will continue, giving Appin Girl the opportunity to secure a victory in the $160,000 event.

Tony Gollan’s Golden Boom currently holds favouritism with bookmakers for the Goldmarket Handicap at $4, with Appin Girl close behind at $4.60.

After missing her Magic Millions opportunity, this will be Appin Girl’s final run of the preparation. Following a break, she will be aimed at Brisbane’s feature races during the Queensland Winter Carnival.

Meanwhile, Hoysted confirmed that 2023 Group 1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) winner Uncommon James is expected to trial in Brisbane in two weeks. The star galloper is being prepared for a return to group racing in Melbourne and Sydney.