The weather forecast at Randwick holds the key to Ciaron Maher’s lineup for the Sweet Embrace Stakes, with Pierro Plate conqueror Ciaron’s Star possibly withdrawn if the track deteriorates from showers.
Spicy Miss is all set for the prominent Golden Slipper forerunner, but assistant trainer Johann Gerard-Dubord stressed that Ciaron’s Star’s involvement hinges on upcoming reports.
“We have the option to either go two weeks (into Saturday), and three weeks into the Slipper, or wait an extra week, which will give her three weeks from last start and two weeks into the Slipper,” Gerard-Dubord said.
“She is by I Am Invincible. Usually, they don’t tend to like those wet tracks.
“We’ve got a very open mind. If there was a bit of give, there would be no issue, but if the track was too wet, we’d be waiting an extra week.”
Unfazed by potential wet conditions despite firm-track form in both her races, Spicy Miss presses on.
She earned silver in the Golden Gift initially, then ran a brave second to Agrarian Girl in the 1000-metre Lonhro Plate. The jump to 1200 metres in Saturday’s Sweet Embrace Stakes aligns well, per Gerard-Dubord.
Fifth in line for the Golden Slipper via stakes money, she provides solid foundation for the stable’s plans.
“After the Gift, we knew we were a good chance to qualify for the Slipper, so working back from the Slipper, we have left plenty of improvement to come,” Gerard-Dubord said.
“We’ve still got more to come, but three weeks between runs and stepping up to 1200 will suit her, and a bit of rain around wouldn’t bother her.
“Obviously, we’d love to get a win on the board, and if she did that or ran very well, we’d progress to the Slipper.”
Pembrey, representing Queensland, dominates early betting on the 1200m Sweet Embrace Stakes, with Spicy Miss and Ciaron’s Star not far behind.
Punters should review betting markets for the race across top sports betting platforms for the Sweet Embrace Stakes.