Trainer Chris Waller is confident that Define can run a strong 2000 metres when she makes her Group 1 debut in the 2014 Vinery Stud Stakes at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday.
Define will step-up to 2000 metres for the first time in her racing career when she contests the 2014 Vinery Stud Stakes at Rosehill Gardens this weekend. Photo by: Steve Hart
Define was set for a tilt at both the Vinery Stud Stakes and Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m) at the start of her autumn campaign and has progressed well; making her debut at Group level with an unlucky second behind Traitor in the Group 2 Phar Lap Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill Gardens on March 22.
The Lonhro filly is currently available at Vinery Stud Stakes odds of $21, but Waller is confident that she is a genuine winning chance in the Group 1 event and believes that she will have no issues staying the trip.
“You will see a lot of three-year-old fillies form change for the better or the worse on Saturday,” Waller said.
“Define has had the perfect preparation for the race.
“I think that she will stay.
“She has drawn a little bit awkwardly, but Craig Newitt rode her well last start and will be better thanks to that experience on her.
“I think that she is a great chance with a great turn-of-foot at the end of her races.”
Waller also has All Cerise in the 2014 Vinery Stud Stakes and the Redoute’s Choice filly has followed a similar path to the race; finishing fourth in the Phar Lap Stakes.
The leading Sydney trainer is not as confident about All Cerise’s chances of running a strong 2000 metres this weekend, but is hopeful that she will be able to settle into a good position in the early stages of the race from barrier two.
“She has also been set for the race,” Waller said.
“She had a little mini break between runs and there is a question mark over her staying ability, but she has drawn well and will get a nice run.
“Hopefully she will see out a strong 2000 metres.”
Waller is chasing his first win in the Vinery Stud Stakes after previously missing the placings with Hoybell (2013), Iron Lace (2011), Little Surfer Girl (2010) and Love And Kisses (2009).
Kewney Stakes winner Solicit ($5) and Donna Logan-trained Rising Romance ($5) are currently equal favourites in 2014 Vinery Stud Stakes betting markets from Keith Nolan Classic winner Zanbagh ($6) and Kris Lees-trained Lucia Valentina ($8).
