Firm ground key for Embrace The Wind at Rosehill

Trainer John Thompson is confident that a return to firmer racing conditions will be the catalyst for the progressive three-year-old Embrace The Wind to perform at his best when he contests the Rosehill meeting on Saturday.

The gelding has drawn the outside gate in the Ranvet Handicap over 1200 metres, but Thompson is not overly concerned, given the horse's typical racing style.

"He gets back, so the draw probably doesn't matter as much for him," Thompson stated. "I'd just love to see him back on top of the ground. He's been running well on the heavy tracks, but when he gets back on top of the ground, I think you will see a better turn of foot."

This lightly-raced sprinter has returned in strong form this preparation. His comeback run saw him produce an eye-catching finish behind Lighthouse Lass at Rosehill in June, surging from last on the home turn to end up just over two lengths shy of the victor. He followed this with a determined third placing behind Rolling Magic on heavy ground at the same track.

Thompson anticipates further improvement from the gelding as he gains race fitness and valuable experience.

"He's progressive, and he'll go through his grades. I think he's got a bright future," he commented. "He's a sprinter. He will definitely push on (after Saturday), but where we head will depend on how he goes."

Thompson's attention is also turning towards the spring reappearance of the talented filly Screen Icon, who is set to embark on a carnival campaign following an additional trial at Rosehill next Friday.

This two-year-old stakes performer is being aimed at the Silver Shadow Stakes (1100m), which marks the commencement of Sydney's four-race Princess Series.

"She trialled well here the other day and beat the older horses," Thompson said. "She trials again on Friday week at Rosehill, and she will run first-up in the Silver Shadow."

Screen Icon enjoyed a promising juvenile season, securing a runner-up finish in the Sweet Embrace Stakes. Her campaign was hampered by misfortune, including a narrow defeat in the Gimcrack Stakes and an unlucky seventh in the Inglis Millennium.

She narrowly missed a start in the prestigious Golden Slipper and concluded her campaign with a competitive showing in the Percy Sykes Stakes, finishing less than three lengths off the winner despite reaching the end of her preparation.

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