Dane Ripper Stakes likely over Stradbroke Handicap for Firestorm

Chris Waller appears likely to reroute talented mare Firestorm to the Dane Ripper Stakes (1300m) instead of the Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) after she drew awkwardly in barrier 16 for Saturday’s Group 1 at Eagle Farm.

The champion trainer had planned to run Firestorm in the Stradbroke, but the wide draw has cast doubt over that plan.

“If she had a good draw she would definitely be running (in the Stradbroke),” Waller said.

“She is good fresh and she has won a Group Two over 1300 metres and run second in a Coolmore (Classic) beaten a nose.

“My gut tells me, leave the Stradbroke, run her in the Dane Ripper and that will have her peaking for the Tatt’s Tiara in two weeks.”

A final decision will be made by Wednesday evening at 5pm AEST.

If Firestorm runs in the Dane Ripper, she will strengthen Waller’s already strong presence alongside Olentia, Konasana, and possibly Gumdrops, who has also accepted for a Listed race.

This switch would also pave the way for Coleman to make the Stradbroke field. The colt, currently first emergency, returned to form last time out with a placing at Eagle Farm.

Despite drawing the outside alley in gate 23, Waller is confident that won’t be a major issue.

“He ran second in a Golden Slipper when Kerrin rode him and he rode him last start as well and said he’s probably a horse that would appreciate a bit of room,” Waller said.

“He’s going well and the 1400 will suit him better.”

Coleman joined Waller's stable earlier this year and has since recorded a Group 1 placing in the ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes over the same trip as the Stradbroke.