Foire De Trone's stamina prevails at Randwick
Endurance was the key as the tough mare Foire De Trone outlasted her competitors at Royal Randwick on Saturday, potentially paving the way for a tilt at The Metropolitan.
Foire De Trone demonstrated superior staying power to defeat the favourite, Le Troisir, in the Andrew Wisemantel Handicap over 2400 metres.
The Ciaron Maher-trained mare was making her sixth appearance this winter, and while the $750,000 Group 1 The Metropolitan (2400m) is run on October 3 at Royal Randwick, the mare will be given a chance to qualify for the significant spring staying race.
"We have been spacing her runs but it is a long way to the 'Metrop','' Maher's assistant trainer Johann Gerard-Dubord commented. "But we will see how she comes through today's race but her coat is still 'wintry' so there is improvement to come.''
Foire De Trone ($8.50), named after a renowned French fair, was expertly ridden by Ethan Brown, securing a narrow victory by a long head over Le Troisir ($2.30 favourite). Golden Century ($17) trailed in third, a further two lengths behind the winner.
According to Gerard-Dubord, Foire De Trone was building on a previous win on a very heavy track at Sandown and once again proved her exceptional stamina in getting past Le Troisir.
"She does hit a flat spot and Ethan was very mindful of that,'' Gerard-Dubord said. "That is why he got her moving a bit sooner rather than later and I think that was the difference between winning and losing.''
Earlier in the day at Randwick, favourite backers celebrated as Clear Proof saluted in the Midway Handicap (1200m).
Clear Proof ($3.60 favourite), despite a tardy start and traversing wide without cover for a considerable portion of the race, proved too strong for Isawyou ($3.90), winning by a half-neck. Call Me Sassy ($11) finished third, just over a length behind.
Trainer John Thompson indicated that Clear Proof had the necessary ability but needed to be gelded to improve his consistency.
"He has to be ridden up on pace, if he gets back in the field he loses concentration,'' Thompson stated. "The plan was to lead today but that went out the window when he missed the kick so he has done a good job to win.''
The performance of Foire De Trone was a standout for those reviewing the online bookmakers.
Explore the latest betting markets for The Metropolitan.
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