Big Swinger out to break city duck at Caulfield
Big Swinger will return to Caulfield on Saturday, looking to secure his first metropolitan victory for trainer Charlotte Littlefield. The three-year-old lines up in the Catanach’s Jewellers Handicap (1200m) after returning from a challenging Sydney campaign.
The gelding has performed strongly at provincial level with three wins from five starts, but city success has so far eluded him, including a run in the Group 2 Arrowfield Sprint (1200m).
“I brought him back from Sydney with our tail between our legs,” Littlefield admitted to RSN.
“We went with high hopes that he could perform well and earn a shot at something like the Golden Eagle but that didn’t eventuate.”
“Now we’re reassessing and taking each race as it comes. He’s a maturing type and should improve with age.”
With Ben Allen booked to ride from gate two, Littlefield knows positioning will be key.
“He needs galloping room – that’s crucial. If he’s stuck inside, he can’t build his stride,” she said.
“It wasn’t the right race in Sydney. This time, we’re hoping for more tempo and space.”
Littlefield may be watching remotely depending on whether The Muffin Man secures a start in the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m), for which he is currently second emergency.
“I’ve delayed my flight to Saturday morning just in case. Fingers crossed,” she said.
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