Barrier draws in focus for Baker’s Golden Slipper hopefuls

Baker’s brace of Golden Slipper entries follow separate prep strategies to the $5 million event, Paradoxium due for a sharp gallop Tuesday while Warwoven takes it easy this week.

Warwoven clinched qualification for the juvenile showdown with a decisive win in the Pago Pago Stakes (1200m) last Saturday, now on a seven-day freshen-up for March 21.

The trainer preferred a different timeline, but the colt required more funds to make the cut, forcing Baker’s decision.

“You never quite know on the back up. It’s always a tricky business,” Baker said.

“But he couldn’t have done much more (on Saturday).

“It’s good to see him back and win that way. He had to do a fair bit early. Obviously, we will be very interested to see how he recovers and comes through and hopefully he can be there with Paradoxium, in the same (Cunningham family) colours, next week.”

Paradoxium’s Golden Slipper buildup ends with Tuesday’s workout, differing from Warwoven’s downtime, Baker outlined.

“Paradoxium will have a good gallop on Tuesday. He galloped on Thursday, and I was thrilled with him. He has definitely improved,” Baker said.

“(Warwoven) will be able to have a very easy week and relax, unlike his trainer and connections.”

Post-Monday entries, the Golden Slipper (1200m) declarations and barriers drop Tuesday.

The absence of a prep standout opens the field wide, heightening barrier importance in Baker’s view.

“So important. You can’t worry about it, but it definitely has a big impact,” he said.

Rachel King continues on Warwoven, Jason Collett loyal to Paradoxium.

“And I’d say there’s probably not too much between them on what we’re seeing at the moment,” Baker said.

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