Tulloch Lodge’s standout mare Alalcance has been in superb form this campaign, but one challenge still remains – the two-mile test. Co-trainer Adrian Bott is optimistic she can conquer that in the upcoming Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick.
The former European import has impressed throughout the autumn, capturing three consecutive stakes races, including a commanding win in the Chairman’s Quality (2600m) last weekend, where she comfortably defeated several of her Sydney Cup opponents.
“She’s got the pedigree to suggest she will stay and she was obviously very strong through the line there on Saturday after sustaining a strong gallop,” Bott said of the daughter of Mastercraftsman.
“All the right indications are there. Obviously, you do like to see them prove themselves first over that distance so it’s going to be new territory for her on Saturday.
“But everything she has shown to date gives a positive indication that she will (stay).”
The Chairman’s Quality has proven a reliable lead-up to the Sydney Cup, with last year’s winner Circle Of Fire completing the double. Bott believes Alalcance is in top condition.
“It was one of her better performances this preparation and that’s what we were hoping to see, that continued improvement as we see her step up in trip,” he said.
Alalcance will jump from barrier 15 in a field of 20 plus reserves, but Bott is confident her racing style will benefit from that draw.
“As we saw on Saturday, Tim (Clark) was able to ride his own race and that’s what we’re going to look to do with her,” Bott said.
“She is versatile, there are a number of different ways she can be ridden and I think that draw gives us the best options to do so.”
Alalcance currently heads betting for the Sydney Cup at $2.40, ahead of Zardozi ($8) and Birdman ($8.50).