Mitch Freedman’s attention at Flemington last Saturday was directed towards the Group 2 Gilgai Stakes, which he triumphed in with Skybird, but he also paid attention to the Turnbull Stakes.
The Ballarat trainer was delighted to see Cosmic Crusader achieve a decisive 1-3/4-length victory in the 2000-metre Group 1 contest.
Attrition, prepared by Freedman, was a similar margin behind Cosmic Crusader when finishing third in the Group 1 Underwood Stakes (1800m) last start, which solidified his form leading into another attempt at the $2 million Group 2 Hill Stakes (1900m) at Rosehill this Saturday.
“He’s certainly up to that level, but he did just have a longer spell than usual and took a little bit of time to get fit,” Freedman commented on the horse’s current campaign. “We were glad to see that good progression last start and hopefully he carries it up to Sydney.”
The Underwood Stakes represented Attrition’s third run this preparation. He commenced his campaign with a ninth placing in the Group 2 Lawrence Stakes (1400m), followed by an 11th place finish out of 16 runners in the Listed Heatherlie Stakes (1700m).
He was 2-1/4 lengths behind Cosmic Crusader in the Underwood Stakes, a race that was won by Birdman.
Heading to Rosehill for the Hill Stakes has become a regular fixture for Freedman and Attrition, who have secured placings in the quinella for the last two years.
After winning the race two years ago, the son of Churchill finished second to Lindermann last year.
“He’s shaping up like he’s going to go there and run really well again,” he said. “He’s been there a couple of times, for a win and a second, so we’re just hoping he can go there and run well again.”
Beau Mertens was in the saddle when Attrition last won the Hill Stakes, and Kerrin McEvoy rode him last year. This time, Jamie Mott will be aboard, having teamed up with Attrition for the first time in the Underwood Stakes.
“I think he suits him really well and I reckon he’s a good rider for him,” Freedman confirmed.
Attrition was one of 14 horses nominated for the Hill Stakes, with his past rivals including last year’s victor Kovalica, Zambardo, Idle Flyer, and King Pedro. Kovalica is the horse Attrition defeated two years prior.
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