The enigma of Siragusa’s antics on The Championships’ second day lingers, but co-trainer Rob Archibald trusts the horse will overcome it and resume his path to victory.
As a $10 prospect for the Listed South Pacific Classic (1400m) on April 11, Siragusa resisted the break, bucking off jockey Craig Williams and missing the action entirely.
“I don’t know what happened. It was a bit of a head scratcher,” Archibald said.
“Craig said he just jumped a bit awkward then ducked out. But he has trialled since and he was fine.”
The son of I Am Invincible opened with successive conquests, clearing Tamworth by three lengths in January and Muswellbrook similarly in March.
Spotting potential, Archibald with wife and co-trainer Annabel aimed the three-year-old at stakes grade; plan disrupted, Rob Archibald foresees success in Saturday’s The Last Post Handicap (1400m) at Randwick.
“He seems talented, albeit he’s won at Tamworth and Muswellbrook,” he said.
“We’re learning about him all the time and we’re just trying build him up to take him through his grades, but he’s certainly one we like.
“He’s definitely got ability, so I’m looking forward to seeing him develop.
“It was a hiccup the other day, but I’m confident he can bounce back on Saturday.”
Stablemate Seastraand, lightly raced for Gerry Harvey—who co-owns Siragusa—joins the race, while OTI Racing’s three-year-old Hillier may feature in the Australian Flying Corps Handicap (1200m).
A Group 2 placer from Melbourne’s spring, Hillier crossed fifth awkwardly drawn in Autumn Boy’s Caulfield Guineas (1600m), prompting Archibald’s caution over the barrier for Randwick.
“I’m not sure. He has drawn a bit sticky,” he said.
“We’ll have a good look at the race and potentially wait a week. But I’ve been really happy with his trials. He seems to have come back in good order so I’m keen to get him started.”
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