Although Bangkok Hottie has delivered strong performances to win the middle legs of the four-race Princess Series, she is not the current favourite for the finale at Randwick. Early market activity indicates a preference for Striking Alibi to turn the tables.
Striking Alibi remains a solid choice in the betting at $2.60, with Bangkok Hottie priced at $3.10. It’s worth noting that Bangkok Hottie has previously relegated Striking Alibi to second place in both the Furious Stakes (1200m) and the Tea Rose Stakes (1400m).
Both fillies are set to tackle a mile for the first time in the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) this Saturday. Kerrin McEvoy, the regular rider for Bangkok Hottie, expressed his surprise at the market’s assessment, emphasizing that the David Payne-trained filly’s form credentials are well-established.
"It’s funny how everyone is always looking at the horses running on, but they’re just forgetting the obvious," McEvoy commented.
"It doesn’t worry myself, or David, or the filly.
"She’s been doing it well. They’ve all got to tick the mile box, and I’m confident she can."
McEvoy has developed a positive rapport with Bangkok Hottie, partnering her to a hard-fought second in the Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) before their subsequent successful outings.
He reminisced about his 2013 Flight Stakes victory aboard Guelph, a mare who displayed similar lead-up form and, much like Bangkok Hottie, possessed the tactical flexibility to lead or race from off the pace.
"Both big and strong, well-made early season three-year-olds," McEvoy remarked when comparing the two.
"Well made, well put together, and with that bit of strength about them. Plus quality as well. Both have those attributes."
McEvoy believes Bangkok Hottie’s intelligent racing brain is a significant asset, giving him confidence in her capacity to conserve energy and finish strongly, despite the step up in distance.
"She’s got a good mindset for it and switches on once the gates open," he said.
"We’ve built a nice little association, and it gives you good confidence going forward that she’s versatile and can adapt to the situation going out to the mile."
McEvoy is also slated to ride Headwall in the Premiere Stakes (1200m) and The Everest (1200m). This Matt Smith-trained sprinter has been confirmed to occupy the slot held by prominent owners Max Whitby, Neil Werrett, and their associates.
While McEvoy has previously trialled Headwall, Saturday will be his first race ride. With a favourable draw from barrier two, he is anticipating a strong performance.
"Great sprinter and I’m really pleased to pick up that ride for the Premiere and the Everest," McEvoy stated. "It will be nice to have a ride on him on Saturday before the big one. He’s come back in good order and drawn barrier two, I’m happy with that."
Bangkok Hottie and Headwall are among McEvoy’s key rides at Randwick, which also includes Attica in the Group 1 Epsom Handicap (1600m).
Explore the latest betting markets for the Flight Stakes with betting sites.
