G1 Australian Guineas remains target for Insignia

Trainer Grahame Begg hopes for clear skies at Flemington after heavy rain affected racing just over a week ago.

Although Cilacap secured a late victory, Royal Insignia struggled in the Group 3 C S Hayes Stakes (1400m) on February 15 due to the wet conditions.

Royal Insignia is set to race in the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) this Saturday, while Cilacap will be reserved for the Group 2 Kewney Stakes (1600m) the following week.

“Royal Insignia is going to the Australian Guineas, Cilacap is definitely not,” Begg said.

“A few had been saying she was going to the Guineas, but she’s definitely not, and she’ll be going to the Kewney to run against the fillies at set-weights.

“I’m looking for a better track for Royal Insignia as he’s hopeless on wet ground.”

Begg highlighted that Royal Insignia was beaten early in the C S Hayes Stakes due to the unsuitable surface.

“We took him to Pakenham on a heavy track and he was hopeless there, his wheels just spin,” Begg said.

“Craig (Williams) said he was gone at the 1000 (metres) the other day, and to his credit, he ran seventh.

“He said under the circumstances it was a great run.”

Begg remains confident in Royal Insignia’s ability and training.

“It’s a winnable race on Saturday and he’ll be in it up to his ears,” Begg said.

Royal Insignia is currently an $11 shot in betting for the Australian Guineas, with Angel Capital leading the market at $3.50 and Sepals priced at $5.50, according to online betting sites.