Tim Clark aiming for redemption with Gangsta Granny
Having kicked off the season with a successful treble at Rosehill, Tim Clark is now directing his focus towards capturing the first Sydney stakes race of the new term aboard Gangsta Granny.
Clark is set to reunite with the mare from Hawkes Racing for Saturday's Group 2 Missile Stakes, a 1200-metre contest where he hopes to solidify his strong start.
"It was a good day last week. I got some nice winners that weren't totally expected, so that's always nice, and for a variety of trainers too," Clark shared.
The leading jockey's sole previous experience with Gangsta Granny resulted in a third-place finish behind Stefi Magnetica in the 1400-metre Invitation Stakes last year.
It's a race that remains fresh in Clark's memory, and he is keen to make amends for that performance.
"I didn't quite have the best of luck when I rode her in The Invitation, so I'm looking to redeem that," he admitted.
"She trialled up well on Friday at Randwick. I gave her a nice hit-out there. She's drawn soft in one, so she will get the right run.
"She'll probably need a bit of luck at the right stages, but you know with her, every time she goes out there she is going to try her best and give her all."
Gangsta Granny has been remarkably consistent, with no finishes outside the placings in her twelve career starts.
Clark attributes this to a combination of her tenacious spirit and the expert race programming by Team Hawkes.
Gangsta Granny has primarily contested fillies and mares' races over the last twelve months, securing two Group 3 wins and five black-type placings, but Clark does not foresee any issues with her taking on the colts and geldings in the Missile Stakes (1200m).
"She's a strong mare and obviously the Hawkes team have placed her really well throughout her career," Clark stated.
"Now is the time to test her at that little bit better level to see where she measures up.
"It's always nice to get the call up to ride one of their horses because invariably, they're in the right races. They do place them well, and I'm looking forward to teaming up with them on Saturday."
As of Thursday, Angel Capital led the Missile Stakes market at $2.60, followed by Gangsta Granny at $3.80 and Ninja at $3.90.
Explore online bookmakers for the best racing betting markets available for the Missile Stakes.
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