Mick Price is optimistic about Hedged’s chances in the upcoming VOBIS Gold Sprint (1200m) at Caulfield, as long as the sprinter can keep his mind focused.
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr stable has been experimenting with Hedged’s headgear in an effort to get the best out of him. This time, Hedged will race with earmuffs, which he has worn pre-race in the past but never during the event.
Price believes the addition of the earmuffs could help Hedged settle down during the race.
“He’s going well, and the race conditions suit him,” Price said.
“He just has to learn to manage the first part of the race at the right pace so that he can finish it off well. His energy is easily sparked, so we need to be cautious with him.”
Price explained that Hedged has a tendency to over-race, which has previously hurt his performance. He recalled a race in Sydney where Hedged got too worked up and didn’t finish as expected.
“We’ve put a lot of work into getting him to relax in this preparation,” he said.
“We’re happy with him, but race day is another challenge.”
Price is also hoping for more rain in Melbourne after Wednesday’s showers to help the gelding perform well on the ground. Hedged will race in Melbourne for the first time since last April.
“If he runs well on Saturday, we might target a couple of races in Adelaide next,” Price said.
“His potential is there if he can stay calm and handle the ground.”