Trainer David Pfieffer is hoping the best version of Whinchat turns up at Rosehill as the unpredictable sprinter launches his new preparation.
The six-year-old returns in Sunday’s TAB Handicap (1400m), marking his first run since an unplaced effort in the Winter Stakes (1400m) back in July.
That performance capped a preparation of mixed results, highlighted by a close Listed placing at Scone and a strong fifth behind Headley Grange, illustrating the horse’s well-known inconsistency.
Whinchat has developed a reputation as a barrier rogue, and Pfieffer says the gelding’s race-day mindset often dictates his fate.
“Ask me after the race and we’ll find out,” Pfieffer said.
“We have done so much work on him, and it hasn’t made a difference.
“But he is working great. His trials have been super. Speed is usually the key thing for him. If he can get to the front on his own, he is going to always be a danger.”
Fifteen runners plus five emergencies have accepted for the benchmark 94 event, and despite Whinchat drawing barrier 16, he will jump from gate 11 should all reserves come out.
Pfieffer is untroubled by the wide alley, noting that Whinchat has a strong first-up profile, placing in all five fresh runs to date.
The stable also produced an exciting newcomer midweek, with three-year-old Ice Kool leading throughout for a dominant debut victory at Warwick Farm.
The Zoustar gelding had hinted at strong ability in trials, and Pfieffer now has his eye on the Magic Millions Sunlight (1100m) at the Gold Coast, won this year by Private Harry before he progressed to Group 1 level.
“He has shown us he’s got ability. He is going to go through his grades quickly and there’s a three-year-old race at the Gold Coast that might catch our attention,” Pfieffer said.
“The Sunlight is what I’m eyeing off. He’s just needed time to mature and the time we have given him has worked out in our favour.”
The $3 million Sunlight (1100m) will be staged at the Gold Coast on January 10.
For those looking to bet on the TAB Handicap or the Magic Millions Sunlight, compare Australia’s leading bookmakers at top betting sites.
