Team Hayes team makes Choice on The Q22
While much of the spotlight will be on the $3 million Stradbroke Handicap this week, the Lindsay Park team is just as focused on a big performance from Bankers Choice in the Group 2 The Q22 (2200m) at Eagle Farm.
Co-trainer Ben Hayes says the stable is pleased with how the seven-year-old is shaping up after a solid third-place run in the Lord Mayor’s Cup (1800m) on May 25, where Bankers Choice led early before being overrun late on a Heavy 8 surface.
“He came through that race well and was probably a bit unlucky with the ground,” Hayes said. “He’s a tough horse, very professional, and that run brought him on nicely for this weekend.”
Bankers Choice is no stranger to the distance, having proven his stamina by capturing the Mornington Cup (2400m) in April, which also secured him a ballot-free entry into the Caulfield Cup later this year.
With no rain forecast and dry conditions predicted in Brisbane, Hayes is optimistic Bankers Choice will enjoy the better going and return to peak form.
“He trialled well at Caulfield Heath in between runs to keep him ticking over,” Hayes added. “We think the 2220 metres of The Q22 is spot-on for him, and he’s ready to run a big race.”
Bankers Choice is rated an $11 contender with top online betting sites, while Doomben Cup runner-up Fawkner Park is the $2.50 favourite in a competitive renewal of The Q22.
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