Linebacker team excited by Zac Lloyd for Doncaster Mile
The connections of Linebacker are thrilled beyond Zac Lloyd's scorching streak, securing the jockey for their pursuit of Doncaster Mile atonement at Randwick.
In addition to seven triumphs in the prior two Saturdays, featuring a win in the $5 million Golden Slipper with Guest House, Lloyd has been the horse's steady partner for 12 months, fully versed in his traits.
The promising jockey rode Linebacker in his previous Doncaster campaign, suffering a slow getaway before rallying late to claim an unfortunate eighth, missing by slightly more than a length.
According to trainer Tom Charlton, the rider's thorough acquaintance with the four-year-old offers a key edge this Saturday, despite benchmark favourite Sheza Alibi appearing dominant on 49kg.
"He knows him well, and he got him to jump out of the gates well the other day, which is something that has let him down a bit, that horse," Charlton said.
"When he missed the break in the Doncaster last year, I daresay it cost him the race.
If we can execute well, he will run well. It's just whether the 49 kilo filly might have a bit more, but we can't worry about that."
Previously, Linebacker arrived via a Randwick Guineas success, contrasting this preparation's weight-for-age approach.
Placed 1-1/2 lengths off Joliestar resuming in the Canterbury Stakes (1300m), midfield to Autumn Glow in the George Ryder Stakes (1500m), he benefits from a six-kilo cut into the weekend feature.
Charlton acknowledged Linebacker's recent run fell short of hopes, but highlighted potential for a quieter second-up showing, akin to pre-Guinneas Hobartville effort last season.
"He just felt the pinch the other day in a tough-run 1500," Charlton said.
"He had a good blow, and he can do that second-up. He will run well third-up, and he gets a significant, six-kilo drop in weight.
I don't think he will be far away."
From gate nine in a field of 16, Linebacker was quoted at $17 midweek, with Randwick Guineas placegetters Sheza Alibi ($2.10 top pick) and Autumn Boy ($7) holding all single-digit quotes.
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