Schiller backing Swiftfalcon to soar in G1 Randwick Guineas rematch

Jockey Tyler Schiller is optimistic about Swiftfalcon’s chances of turning the tables on Broadsiding when they face off again in the Group One Randwick Guineas after a strong performance last start.

In the Hobartville Stakes (1400m), Swiftfalcon had to settle at the rear from a wide draw but produced a remarkable finish, closing within a length of Godolphin’s high-class colt.

With a more favorable barrier on Saturday, Schiller expects a more competitive race from Swiftfalcon.

“I thought that late, he was stronger than Broadsiding,” Schiller said when reflecting on the Hobartville Stakes performance.

“Obviously, he’s a quality colt Broadsiding, and he probably would have found a bit more if we challenged right up alongside him.

“I suppose we’ll see on the weekend. It’s going to be a good fight, and hopefully for my sake we come out on top.”

Broadsiding is the clear favorite in early markets for the Randwick Guineas (1600m), with Swiftfalcon sitting at $4 as the second pick.

Swiftfalcon has drawn barrier five in the nine-horse field, directly outside Broadsiding, and Schiller is looking to secure a better position in the running.

“He jumped quite sharply in his trial from a good draw and then when he drew badly (in the Hobartville Stakes), it’s sort of his racing pattern but it wasn’t where I wanted to be. I would have loved to be midfield following Broadsiding,” he said.

“The draw on the weekend offers us a few more options if he jumps well.”

Schiller will also take the reins aboard Airman for Hawkes Racing in the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m). He believes a stronger pace will benefit Airman after finishing fifth behind Magic Time in the Expressway Stakes (1200m).

“They went very steady and it was a dash home. I thought for a fleeting moment at the 200 that he was going to go on with it and be right in the finish and he just got a bit tired late,” Schiller said.

“A bit more tempo would be lovely for him and he’ll be around the mark.”

Airman has demonstrated his ability when racing second-up, including an impressive victory over Mazu and Bella Nipotina in the Premiere Stakes (1200m) at Randwick last spring.