While the Winx Stakes contest between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi will be the main event this week, the Rosehill barrier trials are also attracting considerable attention as a number of top horses continue their preparations for upcoming races.
Everest hopeful Headwall is slated to participate in his third trial over 900 metres in the opening heat, running alongside notable rivals including Beadman, Lazzura, Linebacker, Marhoona, and Skyhook.
The seven-year-old hasn’t raced since incurring a leg injury after his Concorde Stakes (1000m) victory in September last year. Trainer Matthew Smith has orchestrated a gradual return to fitness for the horse.
He was initially entered for the Show County Quality (1200m) at Randwick this weekend, but the nomination was withdrawn as Smith opted to stick to his original strategy of aiming for successive wins in the feature sprint next month.
“I put him in and had a look, but decided I didn’t really want to change tack,” Smith stated. “I want to go to the Concorde and then go to The Shorts. He’s trialling Friday now and he’s low flying. I think he’s going better than last ‘prep’.”
Several promising three-year-olds from the new season will compete in the second heat, led by Reisling Stakes winner Chayan, Champagne Stakes placegetter Diameter, and Baillieu winner Southend. Todman Stakes winner Paradoxium will feature later in the session in trial six, and J J Atkins placegetter Stormy Marco in the eleventh heat.
Chris Waller has entered both Lady Shenandoah and Campione D’Italia for separate trials on Friday, but both are expected to race at Randwick the following day.
Lady Shenandoah is one of 14 acceptors for the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m), while Sires’ Produce Stakes winner Campione D’Italia returns against older horses in the Show County Quality (1200m).
Tommy Berry partnered the latter to his Skyline Stakes (1200m) win in February. After riding him in two recent trials and an exhibition gallop at Rosehill last weekend, Berry is keen to ride him again on race day.
“He was quite a handful (at two), but everything he’s doing this preparation so far is showing he’s matured quite a lot,” Berry said. “I’m looking forward to seeing him do it at the races.”
The highly anticipated Winx Stakes is drawing significant interest from the betting public. Those looking to place a wager can find competitive racing odds at online bookmakers.