A compelling spread of talent will be on show when Knobelas, Single Red, Lassified and Saganti line up in four of this weekend’s headline races. Each will have their credentials fully tested and, for Single Red and Saganti in particular, shape future autumn ambitions.
East of the Tasman, Knobelas heads to the Group 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes at Te Rapa with momentum and a profile that suggests the step up in class is well within reach. A consistent performer who has shown the ability to absorb pressure and finish off strongly, Knobelas has thrived during this preparation. The Herbie Dyke, traditionally a race that rewards toughness and timing, looks an ideal stage for a runner who does not shirk a contest and continues to progress with racing. Barrier 2 is perfect for her, and Daniel Stackhouse is sure to give her every chance as he chases his first G1 win.
Staying at Te Rapa for the G2 Fillies Classic, the spotlight turns to Single Red, a filly whose raw ability has been evident in winning two of her first three race starts. This is a classic NZ Oaks lead-up, and connections will be keen to see Single Red measure up against her peers with a view to her key target two weeks later. Single Red has also accepted for the G2 Waikato Guineas at the same meeting, so a decision looms for Andrew Forsman on a preference to either take on the boys or girls this Saturday.
Single Red wins last start at Waverley (NZ).
West of the Tasman, another Andrew Forsman-trained filly in Lassified, crosses the ditch to take on the Australian 2yo’s in the $2m Inglis Millennium. Purchased this time last year at the Inglis Classic Sale, this filly has already done a terrific job in New Zealand, notching up an important stakes victory. With an abundance of natural speed, a bold showing on Saturday would give her Ladies syndicate immense pleasure, with the valuable bonuses on offer for qualified horses. Tyler Schiller rides from a mid-draw and she should be seen up in the firing line throughout.
Rounding out the quartet is Saganti, who steps out in the G3 MRC Foundation Cup over a mile at Caulfield. Shaping as an even but strong edition, Saganti will face seasoned rivals accustomed to the cut and thrust of high-pressure racing. OTI has won the Carlyon Cup, as it is more commonly known, twice in its history, with two of our best, Gailo Chop and Manighar. Saturday’s race is seen as another nice stepping stone in Saganti’s preparation, who we’re looking forward to seeing over 2000m and beyond. He certainly looks to have come back in good form this preparation.
Best of luck to connections across all OTI runners this weekend!