The Curse Of The Group 1 Continues For Smart Missile

Smart Missile will have to contend with the widest draw of 17 in Saturday’s Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes as he attempts to win his first Group 1 title.

The three-year-old colt’s unlucky spell with Group 1 races continues, with the outside gate meaning he will likely be posted wide for the majority of the run.

”The first time in a Group 1 he didn’t make it out of the barriers,” trainer Anthony Cummings said.

”Second time he was OK but the jockey (Glen Boss) made a wrong choice. Hopefully it is third time lucky.

”He has received the visitor’s draw on Saturday but I’m sure Glen will work it out.”

Despite the unfortunate draw, Cummings insists the Fastnet Rock gelding has continued to flourish since arriving in Melbourne.

”He hasn’t missed a beat since he has been down in Melbourne,” Cummings said.

“He’s had two gallops at Caulfield and he’s in pretty good shape.

“The bloke that went down with him said he worked better that way than he does the Sydney way, whether he is right or wrong we will find out on Saturday.”

Smart Missile will be the only three-year-old competing in this year’s Sir Rupert Clark Stakes.

“I definitely think the race is within his capability but the barrier makes it a bit more interesting,” Cummings said.

“I was going to say he just needs a touch of luck but from the draw maybe it is a ton of luck.

“At some stage I will have my heart in my mouth but hopefully it turns out well”.

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