Kerrin McEvoy confident Bangkok Hottie can triumph in Flight Stakes
Despite securing victories in the intermediate legs of the four-race Princess Series, Bangkok Hottie is not the market favourite for the concluding event at Randwick. Pundits are currently favouring Striking Alibi to exact revenge.
Striking Alibi remains a strong contender in the betting at $2.60, slightly ahead of Bangkok Hottie at $3.10, who has consistently finished ahead of Striking Alibi in both the Furious Stakes (1200m) and the Tea Rose Stakes (1400m).
Both fillies are set to compete over a mile for the first time in the prestigious Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) on Saturday. Bangkok Hottie's regular jockey, Kerrin McEvoy, expressed some bewilderment regarding the punters' perspective, highlighting that the David Payne-trained filly's form is undeniable.
"It's funny how everyone is always looking at the horses running on, but they're just forgetting the obvious," McEvoy commented.
"It doesn't worry myself, or David, or the filly.
"She's been doing it well. They've all got to tick the mile box, and I'm confident she can."
McEvoy has forged a strong connection with Bangkok Hottie, partnering her to a challenging second place in the Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) before their subsequent back-to-back wins.
He recalled his 2013 triumph in the Flight Stakes aboard Guelph, a mare who presented with similar preparation form and, like Bangkok Hottie, possessed the versatility to win from either the front or from behind the leaders.
"Both big and strong, well-made early season three-year-olds," McEvoy noted in his comparison of the two fillies.
"Well made, well put together, and with that bit of strength about them. Plus quality as well. Both have those attributes."
McEvoy attributes Bangkok Hottie's superior racing acumen as a key factor that boosts his confidence in her ability to conserve energy early and finish powerfully, despite the increase in distance.
"She's got a good mindset for it and switches on once the gates open," he explained.
"We've built a nice little association, and it gives you good confidence going forward that she's versatile and can adapt to the situation going out to the mile."
Additionally, McEvoy has secured the ride on Headwall for the Premiere Stakes (1200m) and The Everest (1200m). This sprinter, trained by Matt Smith, has been officially confirmed to represent the racing slot held by esteemed owners Max Whitby, Neil Werrett, and their partners.
While McEvoy has previously guided Headwall in trials, Saturday will mark his debut race ride. Given a low barrier draw, he anticipates a competitive performance.
"Great sprinter and I'm really pleased to pick up that ride for the Premiere and the Everest," McEvoy stated. "It will be nice to have a ride on him on Saturday before the big one. He's come back in good order and drawn barrier two, I'm happy with that."
Bangkok Hottie and Headwall feature among McEvoy's primary rides at Randwick, alongside Attica in the esteemed Group 1 Epsom Handicap (1600m).
Get involved with the racing betting markets for the Flight Stakes at online bookmakers.
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