Paula Barron expresses concerns over Music Fever's Ipswich barrier
Despite a less-than-ideal draw, a promising Queensland galloper is set to make a significant impact at Ipswich this Thursday.
Paula Barron, a renowned figure in Australian racing, having excelled as both a pioneering female jockey and a Group 1-winning trainer, is accustomed to overcoming obstacles. While not the most daunting challenge she has faced, difficult barrier draws remain a persistent pet hate.
The six-year-old mare, Music Fever, is part of Barron's current stable of seven horses. She is set to compete second-up in the Fertpro Class 2 Handicap (1200m) at Ipswich, starting from barrier nine.
"I'm hoping though I'm not 100% happy with the barrier but she is fit and healthy so I am hoping she can carry it forward," stated the Gold Coast-based Barron.
"There doesn't look to be a lot of speed in the race so she is better to sit off the pace a bit and then she'll finish off a lot stronger. "I hate wider barriers."
Music Fever demonstrated a strong finish to win her first-up start at Beaudesert over 1200m on September 17, bringing her career record to four wins and three placings from twelve appearances.
Earlier in her riding career, Barron was one of only two female jockeys competing against male riders in the Northern Territory. Her training career reached a zenith with Crush's victory in the Group 1 Goodwood Handicap (1200m) in 1991.
Barron is pleased to see Bella Youngberry, a notable talent in the Queensland riding ranks, back aboard Music Fever.
"I've got Bella on with a good weight (54-kilos after her apprentice claim)," Barron added. "I had her booked early and she had another ride and that changed which it to our advantage. She's riding well and she rode Music Fever before at Murwillumbah so she knows her. I'm pretty sure the mare will listen and do her best."
Youngberry has been in fine form this season, recording 20 victories and 32 placings, boasting a 20% winning strike rate.
Consider checking out the latest racing odds available through Australian betting sites for this competitive event.
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