Trainer Michael Hickmott is hoping for a change of luck this Saturday as his promising filly Ad Astra continues to battle against unfavorable barrier draws.
Set to contest the Sportsbet Fast Form Maiden Plate (1000m) on the Morphettville Parks track, Ad Astra has once again landed a wide gate. However, Hickmott remains optimistic that with the right run, she can finally break through for a well-deserved victory.
Reflecting on her early career, Hickmott believes that if things had fallen into place, Ad Astra could already be a ‘Black Type’ winner, including a potential victory in the Adelaide edition of the Magic Millions 2YO Classic.
“She just hasn’t had any luck with barriers,” Hickmott said.
“She was probably unlucky not to have won at her first start and then possibly in the Magic Millions as well.
“Once again, she’s drawn nine of nine on Saturday at the Parks and she’ll need some luck early, but I think she is capable of bouncing back.”
After finishing second on debut in the Listed Cinderella Stakes (1050m), Ad Astra was sent for a spell before returning in a 1200m maiden at Moonee Valley in December.
However, another tough draw saw her trapped wide, and post-race, she was diagnosed with exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), requiring veterinary clearance before racing again.
Following treatment, Ad Astra showed promising signs in a recent 1000m trial at Strathalbyn on January 28, giving Hickmott confidence in her upcoming run.
“We had to treat her, but she’s been back here and has been good,” Hickmott said.
“Subsequently, her trial was fantastic, and she had a soft jump-out last week, so I’m looking forward to seeing her bouncing back.”
Hickmott’s stable has been in red-hot form, securing four wins from its last six runners, including a double at Oakbank on Thursday.
Alongside Ad Astra, Hickmott will saddle up Rabtat in the Croser Handicap (1950m), while Exalted Fire and Lake’s Folly resume in the Sportsbet Handicap (1250m).
His stable will also be represented at Flemington, with Fancify set to contest the Group 3 Frances Tressady Stakes (1400m).
