Freedman, Michael, places faith in Ninja’s skill at securing a forward position as crucial to his bid in the Group One Randwick Guineas.
Two chief adversaries, Autumn Boy and Attica, tend to settle rearward, but Ninja displayed range in the Hobartville Stakes (1400m) sitting off the leader before accelerating to a strong triumph.
This Saturday presents Ninja’s debut at a mile, yet out of a mare by So You Think, Freedman is eager to gauge if the three-year-old can sustain his class over the trip.
“He has never been tried at it, and there is only one way to find out,” Freedman said.
“His racing style, where he can sit handy if needs be, that’s a big advantage.
I’ve got no more insight into whether he’ll run it out or not, but he will certainly run well.
He’s been very full of himself and right on his feed, so I’m happy to press on.”
Decorum, an up-and-coming stablemate, joins Ninja after stringing together midweek wins at Warwick Farm to secure entry.
Freedman foresees Decorum facing stern tests from elite rivals Saturday, but expects the run to pave the way for middle-distance assignments through the carnival.
Considerations for Decorum encompass the Rosehill Guineas (2000m) and Tulloch Stakes (2000m), in addition to his nomination in the ATC Australian Derby (2400m).
“It’s a stepping stone perhaps to something else over a bit further for him, but it gives us a look at him against some of the better quality horses,” Freedman said.
Sheza Alibi from Victoria has tightened to $2.50 market elect for the Randwick Guineas, edging out Autumn Boy ($2.90), as Ninja sits third at $5.50 with Decorum longer at $10.
A win for Sheza Alibi would make her the first filly successful since Mosheen in 2012.
Discover competitive racing betting markets for the upcoming Randwick Guineas.