Trainer Kris Lees plans to replicate the successful formula used for Bestower’s last victory as the mare prepares for the Caloundra Cup on a seven-day back-up.
The five-year-old mare’s most recent win came at Warwick Farm in December, where she contested a 2400-metre race after a 10-day break.
At the Sunshine Coast this Saturday, she will compete in the Listed staying feature, exactly one week after finishing fourth in the Tattersall’s Gold Crown (2100m) at Eagle Farm. Lees is hoping for a similar outcome to her previous win.
“She has raced on a ten day turnaround and won, so this is slightly tighter,” Lees said.
“But she’s come through the 2100 metre race on Saturday well. They just didn’t go quick enough for her. It was a small field and a slack speed, but she hit the line nicely.”
“Whether she’s up to the grade is the question, but it’s good prizemoney and a good chance for her, and she will be suited by the big track.”
With three wins from 31 career starts, Bestower is not a prolific winner but consistently performs creditably.
The mare has amassed 13 additional placings and has only finished outside the top five on four occasions.
From barrier one, Lees anticipates Bestower will put in a competitive performance in the Caloundra Cup (2400m), provided the race is run at a genuine pace.
“She has a good finish if she gets the right tempo up front,” he said.
The stable will also present the promising three-year-old Rustemo in the Group 3 Winx Guineas (1600m), following a streak of three consecutive wins to start his campaign.
Although these wins were in lesser grade races, Lees is willing to test the colt in stronger company while he is in peak form.
“He has come a long way this preparation,” he said.
“He ran about four seconds last time in and he’s put three wins together, so he has been very consistent.”
“It’s a huge jump in grade for him from a Sunday race, so we’re under no illusions there, but there’s big prizemoney attached, and he has won at the track.”
Rustemo has drawn ideally in gate three and will be partnered by Michael Rodd.
Consider checking betting sites for the best odds on the Caloundra Cup.