Exocet’s odds firm to win Thousand Guineas 2016

Exocet

Jockey Dwayne Dunn rates Exocet a VRC Oaks prospect after a strong victory at Caulfield.

But whether the filly also tackles the Thousand Guineas on her way there remains to be seen.

The Lee and Anthony Freedman-trained Exocet has firmed from $51 to $17 for the Group One Thousand Guineas (1600m) after finishing powerfully to win Saturday’s PFD Food Services Supports Lasallian Foundation Plate.

Freedman also indicated the Crown Oaks as a spring option but said he would be keen to run her in the Group Two Edward Manifold Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on October 2 or the Thousand Guineas at Caulfield six days later at her next start after Saturday’s win.

“She’s by Smart Missile out of a Zabeel mare, so she might run the Oaks trip,” Freedman said.

“They weren’t the best fillies today but still she did it well. You might run in the Guineas or we might go to the Manifold because the (Flemington) track may suit her better than here.”

Dunn had Exocet three-wide with cover and was able to have clear running from the top of the straight while some others found trouble.

Exocet, who firmed from $12 to $7.50, finished strongly to win by 2-1/4 lengths over Outback Rain with Whyouask a head away third.

Dunn said the filly, who was having her third start, relaxes well and had a good turn of foot.

“I just think she’s more of an Oaks-type of filly than going into the Thousand Guineas,” Dunn said.

He said while she was doing things right, she was still raw.

“And sometimes you put them in those situations too early before they can handle it and it can go pear-shaped,” he said.

“They’ll make that decision in the next few days I suppose, but personally I’d like to see her go towards the Oaks if we can.”

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au

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