2025 Missile Stakes day at Randwick races in doubt

The fate of Saturday’s Missile Stakes meeting at Randwick could be at the mercy of the skies, with officials keeping a close watch on further predicted rainfall.

Following more than 155mm of rain this week, the Randwick track was rated a heavy 9 on Thursday, raising questions about how conditions will evolve into the weekend.

Jake Carlaw, assistant track manager at the Australian Turf Club, acknowledged the challenging outlook with additional rain expected on Friday and Saturday.

“The next couple of days, there’s about five mils forecast on Friday and about fifteen on Saturday, so it is quite a tricky forecast for the team,” Carlaw said.

“Considering we had barrier trials today (Thursday) we will give the track a quick fill, hopefully mow the track this afternoon and just let Mother Nature take its course with this rain in the next few days.”

Randwick’s rail will shift back to the true position for the first time in two months, offering a fresh racing surface.

Unfortunately, the conditions may see the race lose a major contender, with Joe Pride indicating Private Eye is unlikely to run if the track doesn’t dry.

If scratched, the Group 1-winning gelding is scheduled to trial at Warwick Farm on Friday. Pride said the decision would be made in the morning.

Encap also appears doubtful, with Gary Portelli not keen to run him on a wet surface and instead nominating him for a Rosehill trial as an alternative.

Bjorn Baker’s Robusto will line up in the Missile Stakes, however, bringing solid recent form into the event.

After claiming The Ingham and placing in the Winter Stakes, Robusto landed the Winter Challenge at his last start.

Baker believes the wet track could enhance Robusto’s chances as he drops in distance.

“Not with the track the way it is. It might be a big advantage,” Baker said.

“He’s running and he is rock-hard fit.”