An inside barrier draw, typically seen as an advantage for many gallopers, is the sole reservation for jockey Tommy Berry concerning the prospects of Apocalyptic in Saturday’s Sheraco Stakes.
The Michael Freedman-trained mare has drawn the coveted rails position for the 1200-metre race at Rosehill, a draw Berry suggests might not be ideal given the horse’s preference for ample galloping room.
“Barrier one around Rosehill is probably going to be a little bit tricky,” Berry commented. “She’s going to be in a tricky spot at some stage, but she is going well enough to perform to a good level.”
Notwithstanding the barrier draw, Berry is adamant that Apocalyptic is performing at her absolute best.
After winning the Group 1 Flight Stakes last spring, her form in two autumn starts didn’t quite meet expectations. However, her return effort in the Toy Show Quality (1100m) was highly pleasing, where she charged from second-last to finish third, beaten by a narrow margin.
“They were probably a little bit sharp for her over the 1100,” he explained. “We were hoping to be closer, but they were running ‘ten-and-a-halfs’ (seconds to the furlong) and that’s too quick for her as a travelling speed. Then she’s run home in about 33 (seconds) for the last 600, so she’s done a good job. That was her tiring a bit late too and she has taken good improvement from the run.”
“Her work on Tuesday was as good as it’s ever been. “We’re pretty keen on her chances. I would have loved a barrier a bit more in the middle, but you can’t have everything go your way.”
The Sheraco Stakes has a history of being won by exceptional mares, including More Joyous, Catkins, and Entriviere. Sunshine In Paris claimed the prize two years prior before her subsequent run in The Everest. With Midnight In Tokyo and Ahha Ahha scratched, Apocalyptic will now contend with nine rivals, featuring Chris Waller’s pair Lady Shenandoah and Lazzura, alongside the promising Plaintiff and Weeping Woman. Consider the latest betting markets for the Sheraco Stakes with various Australian betting sites.