David Payne eyes next Group 1 star in Persian Wonder
Despite running a compact stable, David Payne excels at spotting Group 1 talent, and he's optimistic that two-year-old Persian Wonder will be the newest addition.
This exciting prospect lines up in the Champagne Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on Saturday, seeking his maiden win at top level after consistent efforts, capped by a strong runner-up finish to Southend in Rosehill's Baillieu (1400m) last month.
Payne, who began in South Africa, boasts a record of more than 100 Group 1 triumphs worldwide, having honed stars like Criterion, Ace High and Montefilia during his Australian tenure.
He defies the odds with his modest setup and limited horse numbers.
The unassuming trainer attributes much to good fortune, yet his yearling selection skills stand out.
"I have been in the game a long time and I've been lucky with buying horses," Payne said.
"But you've got to find the horse first. We buy maybe ten at the sales, other stables might buy 250. But we always find one, and we've got a couple there at the moment."
Complementing Wednesday's Warwick Farm triumph by Bangkok Hottie, who's now on a break for a spring tilt at the Princess Series, Persian Wonder looks set to lead the stable's upcoming charges.
Though drawn wide at Randwick, complicating matters, the youngster thrives from off the tempo, a tactic Payne intends to use.
Last start, he raced more forwardly with James McDonald, missing out on the win but gaining valuable lessons, per Payne.
"It was a good run. I thought he might have been a bit too handy, but it's good that James taught him to get out of the gates," he said.
"It's a tough race on Saturday so we'll ride him quiet and see what happens.
"We have been aiming him at this for a while, so we'll see if he's good enough."
With McDonald riding Sires' Produce Stakes winner Campione D'italia, Chad Schofield resumes on Persian Wonder following his notable fourth in the Pago Pago Stakes (1200m) back on March 14.
Check the online bookmakers for competitive racing betting markets on the Champagne Stakes.
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