Fresh from Attrition’s commanding performance in the Hill Stakes, trainer Mitchell Freedman has set his sights on another significant Sydney raid, this time with the highly regarded sprinter Skybird.
Attrition’s second victory in the Rosehill feature last weekend saw him defeat the tenacious Lindermann. On Saturday, Skybird, a stablemate, will get her opportunity to shine in the $2 million Sydney Stakes (1200m) at Randwick.
While the mare faces a wide draw in barrier 18, she is expected to contend with a rain-affected track. Conditions were rated a heavy 8 on Wednesday, following 66mm of rain in the preceding 24 hours, with further showers predicted.
Skybird last raced to victory in the Gilgai Stakes (1200m) on a similar surface at Flemington. Earlier this year, she achieved a third-place finish, a length behind Everest contenders Joliestar and Giga Kick, on a wet track in the T J Smith Stakes (1200m).
Both horses have been exceptional advertisements for Freedman’s training capabilities. Attrition has earned over $4.3 million from 33 starts, and Skybird’s prize money is set to surpass $2 million if she finishes in the top two at Randwick.
“It’s a good ride to be on at the moment with these two horses, that’s for sure,” Freedman remarked. “With a small team in Ballarat and my team around me, we punch well above our weight.”
Freedman will maintain a close watch on track conditions as the week progresses before making a final decision on Skybird’s participation. Her major target remains the Champions Sprint (1200m) at Flemington next month.
He has been delighted with her progress since her Gilgai Stakes win on October 3. Notably, Ben Melham has been engaged for the Sydney Stakes ride, having partnered the mare in her last two appearances.
“She couldn’t be better. She’s really holding her form and really sound at the moment,” Freedman confirmed. The Sydney Stakes (1200m) has attracted a full field of 16 runners plus four emergencies. The market is wide open, with Overpass and Charm Stone sharing favouritism at $7, and Skybird considered a significant $8.50 chance.
With the Sydney Stakes line-up looking strong, exploring the available betting sites for the best racing odds is a prudent step.
