Freedman still learning about European sprinter ahead of Expressway Stakes

Michael Freedman openly acknowledges that he remains uncertain about what to expect from his latest acquisition, Givemethebeatboys, as the former European sprinter prepares for his Australian debut in the
Expressway Stakes at Randwick.

While imported racehorses have become a common sight in Australian racing, most are typically middle-distance or staying types rather than pure sprinters.

This makes Givemethebeatboys, a Group 1 placegetter and three-time stakes winner over 1207m in Ireland, a unique case. Freedman is eager to see how he adapts to the local racing scene.

"To be honest, I’m not entirely sure. I am still learning my way with him," Freedman admitted.

"It’s a bit of a rarity to have European horses come here with sprinting credentials. Usually, they’re stayers or middle-distance horses.

"But since finishing quarantine, he has thrived. He’s been very straightforward to handle, and for a four-year-old stallion, he’s got a fantastic, relaxed temperament."

The imported sprinter has completed two trial runs ahead of the Expressway Stakes (1200m), where he will face a select but quality field, including Group 1 winners Joliestar and Magic Time.

Jockey Tim Clark has been booked for the ride, and like Freedman, he is eager to assess how Givemethebeatboys handles the conditions—especially running around a turn for the first time.

"Even though it’s a small field, it’s strong in terms of quality, so this will give us a much better understanding of where he fits in," Freedman said.

"I believe all his previous races in the UK and Ireland were on straight tracks. While he’s had two trials around a bend here, he has yet to race under those conditions, so that will be a new experience for him."

Clark will be aiming for his fourth win in the Group 2 Expressway Stakes in the past eight years, having previously won aboard Mariamia (2023), Overpass (2022), and Trapeze Artist (2018).