The Lindsay Park team and the training partnership of Anthony and Sam Freedman shared the spoils in the Listed Talindert Stakes (1100m) at Flemington, with both stables now weighing up a tilt at Victoria’s richest two-year-old race at Caulfield next week.
The Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) is firmly on the radar for both Shining Smile, trained by Ben, Will, and J D Hayes, and Tentyris from the Freedman yard after the pair dead-heated in a thrilling finish on Saturday.
A protest was lodged by Daniel Stackhouse, rider of Shining Smile, citing interference in the final 50m, but after thorough deliberation, Racing Victoria stewards dismissed the objection.
Will Hayes, representing Lindsay Park, said a decision on whether Shining Smile backs up for the Blue Diamond will be made after assessing his recovery.
“We will see how he pulls up before deciding on the Blue Diamond,” Hayes said.
“If we opt against it, we might look towards heading north for the Golden Slipper instead.
“There are some nice lead-up races that could set him up well for the Slipper.”
The prestigious Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m) is scheduled for March 22 at Rosehill.
Meanwhile, Sam Freedman was delighted with Tentyris’ turnaround in form after finishing fifth behind stablemate Inkaruna on debut at Sandown a fortnight ago.
To sharpen the colt’s focus, the stable introduced some variety into his training routine, including a few sessions over hurdles, which Freedman believes paid dividends.
“That change in routine really helped keep his mind on the job,” Freedman said.
“They’re still learning, but sometimes a fresh approach makes all the difference.
“Today, he was much more responsive on race day compared to his debut, where he was a bit hard work.”
Freedman confirmed discussions will take place with the Godolphin team regarding the Blue Diamond, but the primary concern is ensuring Tentyris pulls up well from Saturday’s run.
“We’ll let things settle before making a call,” he said.
“Straight racing is a different dynamic, where they build into it, but stepping up to a high-pressure 1200m is another challenge entirely. We’ll talk it over and decide from there.”
