Alsephina set for the G2 Guy Walter Stakes
Alsephina arrived in Sydney early Thursday morning, in great condition, after making the journey from Perth via Victoria, which added some extra time to her trip.
Trainer Grant Williams has established a solid track record of shipping his horses from Western Australia for eastern states features, and following a successful 2023 campaign, which included a win, two placings, and a fourth in the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes (1600m), the six-year-old mare is set to compete in the Group 2 Guy Walter Stakes (1400m) at Randwick this Saturday.
“The Melbourne trip last spring was really beneficial for her,” Williams reflected.
“I’m looking forward to seeing where we are on Saturday,” he added.
Saturday’s race will be Alsephina’s debut in Sydney, although she’s been training in the clockwise direction at Mornington this week.
“She galloped in the Sydney direction on Tuesday and handled it well,” Williams said. “She’s very adaptable, changing legs as needed, and is very easy to train.”
“Race day might bring different pressure, but we’re confident she’ll manage it easily,” he added.
“She’s staying at David Brideoake’s property, which is a familiar environment for her,” Williams said.
A quiet look around Randwick on Friday or Saturday morning is all that Williams and Alana need to complete Alsephina’s preparations.
“I think it’s the best approach,” Grant commented.
“Her last campaign was excellent, and she’s in a better place now than when she went into her first run at Flemington,” Williams said.
“She’s further along in her preparation now, and the fact she’s already been away is a positive. I’m really excited about what she can do,” Williams said.
If all goes well this Saturday, Alsephina will target the Group 1 Coolmore Classic (1500m) at Rosehill on March 15, where she is an $8 chance in the futures market.
She also has the Doncaster Mile and the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes, both over 1600 meters, as possible future targets.
Partnered by Kerrin McEvoy this weekend, Alsephina is the $4 second favourite with betting apps for the Guy Walter Stakes, with Amelia’s Jewel the $2.30 favourite.
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