Tempted to trial before potential TJ Smith Stakes run
Elite sprinter Tempted, a standout filly, will undertake a barrier trial this week to stay on track for her next objective in the Sydney autumn carnival.
Entries are in place for the three-year-old in a 1000m event at Hawkesbury on Monday or a 1030m workout at Rosehill on Tuesday, as trainer Ciaron Maher leans towards Rosehill subject to surface conditions.
Her regular partner Chad Schofield is engaged for both potential trials.
"I'll see what the tracks are like, but she will probably go to Rosehill," Maher said.
Last spring, Tempted was narrowly beaten by superstar Ka Ying Rising when runner-up in The Everest (1200m), before claiming her initial Group 1 triumph via a resolute performance in the Surround Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on February 28.
Retained in peak freshness afterwards, the filly impressed during a recent check at Maher’s Bong Bong centre, according to the trainer.
"I was down at Bong Bong during the week. I pulled her out of the paddock, and I thought, she's going to jump out of the paddock, so I swiftly put her back away," he said.
"She's in great order."
Randwick’s Arrowfield 3YO Sprint (1200m) on April 11 is the frontrunner for her next start, but Maher hasn’t dismissed a clash with the elder brigade in the preceding week’s TJ Smith Stakes (1200m).
"Maybe an Arrowfield or TJ. I will see what the other horses are doing," he said.
She is the $1.00 elect in Arrowfield wagering and quoted at $8 for the TJ Smith.
Giga Kick, winner of the 2022 Everest, will join her at Rosehill trials on Tuesday after a strong fourth to Generosity under Clayton Douglas in the Challenge Stakes (1000m).
The horse is targeted at another attempt in the TJ Smith Stakes, having placed second behind I Wish I Win three years previously.
Those interested in the TJ Smith Stakes should check Australian betting sites for the latest markets.
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