Gear change for Hedged in the VOBIS Gold Sprint

Mick Price is hopeful that Hedged can finally showcase his potential in the upcoming VOBIS Gold Sprint (1200m) at Caulfield, as long as he keeps his mind focused.

The sprinter will wear earmuffs for the first time during the race, a tactic that the Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr stable has implemented to help him relax. Previously, Hedged has only worn earmuffs before the race, but this time the gear will stay on throughout the event.

Price believes that this change could make all the difference for Hedged, who has shown his ability but often struggles to settle during the early stages of a race.

“He’s doing well, and the race conditions are in his favour,” Price said.

“He just needs to run the first part of the race correctly and at the right pace. He has a lot of energy, so we have to make sure it doesn’t go to waste early on.”

Price recalled an instance in Sydney where Hedged’s overexcitement caused him to miss the finish, something the stable has been working hard to avoid this time.

“We’ve spent a lot of time getting him to relax, but race day is always a different story,” he said.

Price was encouraged by the recent rain in Melbourne but is hoping for a bit more ahead of Saturday’s race. Hedged will be racing in Melbourne for the first time since last April.

“If he performs well, we might look at some races in Adelaide,” Price said.

“With the right mindset and conditions, Hedged can definitely win a big race.”