Anticipating the development of an inexperienced two-year-old proves challenging, even more so after an early-season stumble.
That said, Tommy Berry is full of hope for Incognito as the youngster aims to restart his Golden Slipper journey in the Silver Slipper (1100m) on Saturday at Rosehill.
The past market leader for the prestigious $5 million juvenile event struggled in his return via the Canonbury Stakes (1100m), with a gurgling noise detected post-race pointing to a likely displaced palate.
Michael Freedman, the trainer, has updated the gear including a tongue tie and bit for tongue control, and Berry reports positive developments leading to expectations of recovery.
“On his work on Tuesday morning, there will be no excuses and nowhere to hide for him Saturday because he couldn’t be going any better,” Berry said.
“It will be one or the other with him.
He’ll either come out and show us what he’s made of, and he’ll be right back in contention, or I don’t really want to think about the other option.
But they’re two-year-olds, and it’s week to week with them and how they perform.
I have been let down by plenty in the past, but I’d be very surprised if that’s the case with this guy.”
Having impressed with a Breeders’ Plate triumph in spring, Incognito entered the Canonbury as heavy favourite but was beaten by Hidrix, who lines up again Saturday.
Berry noted the breathing issue aside, his decision to press forward might have disrupted the horse’s rhythm, differing from his usual settling tactics he’ll employ here.
“Considering his price, we tried to ride him like a good thing, but by putting him into the race the way I did, he really got onto the chewy and took a good hold,” Berry explained.
“I think he’s panicked because I’ve asked him to really be there, which I had never done before. When he won, he was three pairs back and in all his trials he was in the second half and got into a lovely rhythm, breathed really well and finished off the way we know he can.
On Saturday, drawing well was very important, and he has, and that will give us the opportunity to ride him with cover and let him do things right.”
For the latest racing odds on Incognito’s Silver Slipper performance, visit trusted betting sites.