Spring Racing Carnival plans afoot for Ahha Ahha

Trainer Clinton McDonald is already thinking ahead to spring with emerging filly Ahha Ahha, who will contest the Darren Galley Mile (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday as she builds towards a bigger goal later this year.

McDonald has his sights set on the Group 3 Summoned Stakes (1600m) at Caulfield in November, and believes Saturday’s race could be the final stepping stone before a break.

With two wins from nine starts, Ahha Ahha has taken time to mature, but her recent win at Sandown on May 24 over Terrilee showed she is heading in the right direction after her earlier maiden success at Cranbourne in April.

“The only time she has got it right in her races was when she won at Cranbourne, although she still did a little wrong, and the other day with Jamie (Melham) on,” McDonald explained.

“She was able to do it smoothly and didn’t lose her action or drop the bit, and as soon as she gave her one around the backside, she really let rip.”

McDonald believes tempo is key for Ahha Ahha’s performance. “I think she likes a fast tempo, and the figures will tell you that,” he said.

He’s also confirmed that her preparation will likely end after this weekend. “She’s a good filly and the penny is starting to drop, but I think this will be her last run and then I’ll put her away.”

“I’ll bring her back and look to the spring, with something like the Summoned Stakes at the backend of the Carnival a suitable target.”

“I reckon that race at the end of the spring, it’s a forgotten race, so we can give her a break and set her for that.”

While Jamie Melham was aboard last start, rising apprentice Dakotah Keane will ride her this weekend, taking 3kg off the filly’s back.