Flemington track conditions won't deter She's A Hustler's Caulfield Cup lead-up

Grahame Begg acknowledges that a rain-affected Flemington track is far from ideal for She's A Hustler, but the mare is still on track for her Caulfield Cup preparation.

According to Flemington track manager Liam O'Keeffe, the course could receive as much as 50mm of rain in the coming days, potentially pushing the surface into heavy territory.

She's A Hustler is scheduled to compete in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes over 2000 metres this Saturday, which will serve as her final tune-up for the Caulfield Cup on October 17.

The Begg-trained mare made her return from a winter spell on September 12, finishing fifth to Sheza Alibi in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington.

"She was good last time," Begg commented.

"I think the one key factor was she got back on the good ground and last preparation she only got on two good tracks and they were her best runs.

"It doesn't look that we will get that on Saturday, looking at the forecast, but we'll be running as it's two weeks out from the Caulfield Cup.

"We don't want to be running in the Might And Power (on Saturday week) and then back up seven days later into the Caulfield Cup, even though I did do it with Nonconformist, but he was a gelding.

"Hopefully Flemington will miss the bulk of the rain."

Begg has observed significant improvement in She's A Hustler since her first-up effort.

A key development has been her improved ability to settle during a race, a focus for the stable throughout her 16-start career.

"Her wellbeing has come on greatly for her first-up run," Begg explained.

"Her coat has dapples coming out in it. She has tapered down well, her work has been good, and she's ticking all the boxes at this stage.

"And getting her to settle has been a big thing. We've been trying to get her to come back and relax and switch herself off.

"We're focusing on October 17 and if we can get a similar type of run as to the other day, then we'll be happy.

"There doesn't look to be a lot of speed in the race with Sir Delius likely to take control and Light Infantry Man could roll forward.

"We'll be riding her where she's comfortable and giving her that opportunity."

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