Trainer Grahame Begg has stated that a damp Flemington track is not the preferred scenario for She’s A Hustler as she continues her campaign towards the Caulfield Cup.
Flemington’s track manager, Liam O’Keeffe, anticipates up to 50mm of rain falling on the track in the next 48 hours, which could lead to heavy conditions.
She’s A Hustler is set to compete in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) on Saturday, serving as her final outing before the Caulfield Cup (2400m) on October 17.
The mare, under Begg’s training, had her first start since a winter break when she finished fifth behind Sheza Alibi in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on September 12.
“She was good last time,” Begg reported.
“I think the one key factor was she got back on the good ground and last preparation she only got on two good tracks and they were her best runs.
“It doesn’t look that we will get that on Saturday, looking at the forecast, but we’ll be running as it’s two weeks out from the Caulfield Cup.
“We don’t want to be running in the Might And Power (on Saturday week) and then back up seven days later into the Caulfield Cup, even though I did do it with Nonconformist, but he was a gelding.
“Hopefully Flemington will miss the bulk of the rain.”
Begg indicated that She’s A Hustler has made significant progress since her initial run back from a spell.
Furthermore, the stable has been working on the mare’s ability to settle during races, a key focus throughout her 16-start career.
“Her wellbeing has come on greatly for her first-up run,” Begg elaborated.
“Her coat has dapples coming out in it. She has tapered down well, her work has been good, and she’s ticking all the boxes at this stage.
“And getting her to settle has been a big thing. We’ve been trying to get her to come back and relax and switch herself off.
“We’re focusing on October 17 and if we can get a similar type of run as to the other day, then we’ll be happy.
“There doesn’t look to be a lot of speed in the race with Sir Delius likely to take control and Light Infantry Man could roll forward.
“We’ll be riding her where she’s comfortable and giving her that opportunity.”
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