Gringotts appeals as 2025 Winx Stakes knockout
While much of the focus will be on the star mare Via Sistina in the Winx Stakes, jockey Tommy Berry believes Gringotts is ready to strike and could make the perfect return in Saturday’s Randwick Group 1.
Gringotts resumes off the back of his breakthrough at the top level, having taken out the George Ryder Stakes (1500m) last campaign. Berry is convinced that the 1400m trip of the Winx is exactly what the gelding needs.
With Sydney soaked in rain and Randwick holding a heavy 10 surface, Berry said the conditions could play right into his mount’s strengths.
“He has trialled really well on two occasions now and if you look at a lot of the horses going to the Winx, the 1400 isn’t going to be their preferred trip,” Berry said.
“But his first-up record is great, his 1400-metre record is great and it’s right in his sweet spot.
“He has ticked that wet track box off as well.
“He’s going awesome. I’m really looking forward to him.”
Gringotts has built a stellar record at the distance, with five victories and four seconds from 10 attempts at 1400m. He also owns three wins from four runs on soft ground, while his Gosford trial success on testing conditions suggested he handles heavy going too.
A field of 12 has assembled for the season’s first Sydney Group 1, nine of them elite-level winners. Alongside Via Sistina are Fangirl, Aeliana, Ceolwulf and the Australian Cup winner Light Infantry Man, ensuring a top-class renewal.
For those looking to bet on Gringotts or any of his rivals in the Winx Stakes, the latest odds and offers are available via Australia’s leading betting sites.
More Racing News
Sir Kingsford's local Cups campaign begins at Morphettville Parks
A pursuit of a Melbourne Cup start has been abandoned for the South Australian galloper Sir Kingsford, who will now focus his attention on local Cup races.After securing second place in the Port Adelaide Cup at Morphettville in May, Sir Kingsford then travelled to Flemington to compete in the Andrew...
Nearco Frod seeks fifth win in a row at Sandown
The training partnership of Tony and Calvin McEvoy possesses a thorough understanding of equine development.Last year, after a period spent in the warmer climate of Queensland, Half Yours returned to claim a double in the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups.Half Yours is once again bound for the Melbourne Cup, with a...
Signature Scent primed for Carlyon Stakes challenge
A 1000m dash at Stakes level has been on the radar for Signature Scent for some time, according to the Ciaron Maher stable.Notwithstanding a recent failure to place in a three-year-old event, the stable sees no impediment to her contesting the Group 3 Carlyon Stakes (1000m) at Sandown this Saturday.Having...
Idle Flyer's Spring Carnival Path Tested in Winx Stakes
Trainer Matthew Smith is keen to assess Idle Flyer's capabilities against top competition as she begins her spring campaign in the Winx Stakes at Randwick, with the Cox Plate looming as a potential target.After a dominant performance in the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m) in the autumn,...
Apocalyptic primed for Randwick return, says Berry
Just as Ninja made a statement with his Missile Stakes win two weeks ago, stablemate Apocalyptic will be on a mission to do the same when she launches her campaign in the Toy Show Quality at Randwick.Dominant in the Princess Series as a spring three-year-old, Apocalyptic performed below expectations in...
Almairac's Adelaide venture after frustrating draws
Despite a string of unfavourable barrier draws in the past week, trainer Cliff Brown is taking a calculated risk by sending Almairac to Adelaide.Almairac has faced wide gates at recent starts, including last Saturday in Sydney and Wednesday at Sandown. On Saturday, the gelding will again jump from a challenging...
Screen Icon's prospects brightened by Rosebud result
Trainer John Thompson received a positive sign from the Rosebud race, even without a runner, which has bolstered his confidence for Screen Icon's upcoming appearance in the Silver Shadow Stakes at Randwick.The recent running of the Rosebud saw Chilly Girl emerge victorious, finishing a half-length ahead of Screen Icon in...
Ceolwulf poised for spring resurgence
Trainer Joe Pride is optimistic about the return to form for Ceolwulf, a four-time Group One winner, after an abbreviated autumn campaign.The star miler, who had his spring campaign cut short after just two starts last time in due to foot concerns and a minor bleed, will make his reappearance...
Tennessee aiming for seventh consecutive win
Ciaron Maher's stable possesses a remarkable ability to nurture older mares, bringing out their best performances.One can point to the examples of Bella Nipotina and Pride Of Jenni, who continued to perform at a high level throughout their careers.Tennessee Bound, while perhaps not in the same calibre, boasts a notable...
Rosehill trials feature Headwall and emerging talent
While the Winx Stakes contest between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi is capturing attention this week, Rosehill barrier trials are also a significant drawcard as several equine stars intensify their preparations for their return to racing.Headwall, a contender for The Everest, will undertake his third trial over 900 metres in...