Apocalyptic's inside draw a concern for jockey Berry
An inside barrier draw, often considered a significant advantage, is the sole point of concern for jockey Tommy Berry regarding Apocalyptic's prospects in the upcoming Sheraco Stakes.
The Michael Freedman-trained mare has drawn barrier one for Saturday's 1200-metre contest at Rosehill, a position Berry feels might hinder her chances due to her need for ample galloping room.
"Barrier one around Rosehill is probably going to be a little bit tricky," Berry stated. "She's going to be in a tricky spot at some stage, but she is going well enough to perform to a good level."
Beyond the barrier draw, Berry is confident that Apocalyptic is performing at the peak of her abilities.
The winner of last spring's Group 1 Flight Stakes, she didn't quite meet expectations in her two autumn appearances. However, her return to racing in the Toy Show Quality (1100m) was impressive, where she came from second-last to finish third, less than a length off the winner.
"They were probably a little bit sharp for her over the 1100," he commented. "We were hoping to be closer, but they were running 'ten-and-a-halfs' (seconds to the furlong) and that's too quick for her as a travelling speed. Then she's run home in about 33 (seconds) for the last 600, so she's done a good job. That was her tiring a bit late too and she has taken good improvement from the run."
"Her work on Tuesday was as good as it's ever been. "We're pretty keen on her chances. I would have loved a barrier a bit more in the middle, but you can't have everything go your way."
The Sheraco Stakes has a distinguished honour roll, featuring champions like More Joyous, Catkins, and Entriviere. Sunshine In Paris was a recent victor before her notable run in The Everest. With Midnight In Tokyo and Ahha Ahha withdrawn, Apocalyptic will now face a field of nine, including Chris Waller's pair Lady Shenandoah and Lazzura, alongside the promising Plaintiff and Weeping Woman. Get the latest racing odds on the Sheraco Stakes at leading online bookmakers.
More Racing News
Sir Delius commences spring campaign in Makybe Diva Stakes
Gai Waterhouse, much like her esteemed father Tommy Smith, has historically been a pivotal figure throughout the Melbourne Spring Carnival.With her training associate Adrian Bott based in Sydney, Waterhouse has found it feasible to maintain a more consistent presence in Melbourne during the spring racing season.Waterhouse was observed at Flemington...
Skyhook sets sights on the Golden Eagle from Rosehill
The Epsom Handicap is no longer on the agenda, but the lucrative $10 million Golden Eagle remains a key target for Gerald Ryan's sprinter-miler, Skyhook.This four-year-old will make his return in the Group 2 Theo Marks Stakes (1300m) at Rosehill on Saturday, a decision that effectively closes the door on...
McDonald guides Columbus to Randwick-Kensington win
Champion jockey James McDonald has been rewarded for his enduring support of Columbus, sticking with the horse through a couple of recent setbacks to secure a midweek victory at Randwick's Kensington track.The son of Dundeel, a horse McDonald rode to six Group 1 victories, was initially earmarked as a potential...
Warnie's masterclass shines in delayed Chautauqua Stakes
The transformation of Warnie into a more composed galloper, a change attributed to his gelding, is now clearly evident in his racetrack performances for Ciaron Maher.During the Group 3 Chautauqua Stakes (1300m) at Sandown on Wednesday, Warnie maintained a relaxed rhythm before launching an impressive finishing surge.This Group 3 race...
St Gotthard poised for Run To The Rose challenge
The considerable, yet largely unproven, talent of the colt St Gotthard is set to be unveiled when he contests a strong field of three-year-olds in a vital lead-up to the Golden Rose at Rosehill.As a sibling to the promising young sire Switzerland, St Gotthard faces his most significant test in...
Archer Stakes winner earns Melbourne Cup entry
The imported stayer Nearco Frod is aiming for his fifth consecutive win and a berth in the Melbourne Cup when he contests the Archer Stakes at Flemington.Tony and Calvin McEvoy's charge will compete in the Group 3 Archer Stakes (2500m) on Saturday, with the winner gaining automatic entry into the...
Mr Brightside eyes historic fourth Makybe Diva Stakes win
Champion galloper Mr Brightside, a star from the Lindsay Park stable, is poised to continue his perfect streak in a prominent Group 1 race at Flemington.The Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m), scheduled for Flemington on Saturday, has been a happy hunting ground for Mr Brightside over the past three years, with...
Lloyd's confidence high for Verona Rose in Theo Marks Stakes bid
Jockey Zac Lloyd is slated to partner the Group-winning mare Verona Rose for his debut ride in the Theo Marks Stakes at Rosehill, a decision spurred by her impressive showing in a recent barrier trial.Lloyd was on board when the five-year-old contested a 742-metre trial. Despite predictions that she would...
Tributes flow for racing legend Paddy Payne Snr
Australian racing bids farewell to the distinguished Ballarat horseman Paddy Payne Snr, who passed away at the age of 90. He was widely regarded as the patriarch of one of the sport's most celebrated families.Paddy and his late wife, Mary, were the parents of ten children, many of whom became...
Flemington straight appearance for Oliveanotherday
The Warrnambool-trained sprinter Oliveanotherday is set to gain experience in the Flemington straight as the gelding's current racing schedule begins to crystallise.Oliveanotherday has achieved an impressive five consecutive wins, and his next outing is slated for the Group 2 Bobbie Lewis Quality over 1200 metres on Saturday.This race offers Oliveanotherday...