Despite finishing unplaced at Flemington on Cox Plate Day, the potential of the filly Aroused has Grahame Begg feeling positive.
The daughter of Snitzel is slated to compete against a field of distinguished runners in the $1 million Group 3 Thoroughbred Club Stakes at Sandown.
This 1200-metre event will be merely her third start, following an impressive debut maiden win and a close second, by a short-head, in the Listed Crockett Stakes (1200m) on October 24.
Saturday’s race represents a step up in competition, with rivals including Natural Fling, Chayan, Lady Catalina, Sequinned, and the Crockett Stakes winner Caddington confirmed. Nevertheless, Begg is confident that his filly has room for further improvement.
“She ran very well, she just got a little bit exposed for inexperience up the straight,” he commented.
“Also, she had to do it at both ends. She drew the outside gate and the one down on the inside probably dropped off a bit quick and she got left in front but she ran very, very well and we think this is a nice race for her.”
“It’s a nice time between both races that three-week gap.”
Her maiden victory, a dominant three-length win over 1000m at Ballarat, was recorded on September 30.
Aroused is the progeny of the Written Tycoon mare Sexy Eyes, a $700,000 purchase from last year’s Inglis Easter Yearling Sale, and carries the Fairway Thoroughbreds colours, associated with John Camillieri, the breeder of the renowned Winx.
She has drawn barrier three in the large 15-horse field, with Jordan Childs, who has ridden Aroused in both her previous appearances, retaining the mount.
Aroused forms part of a strong book of rides for Begg and Childs on the day’s program, as they also combine with Splash Back in the $1 million Orr Stakes and the defending champion She’s A Hustler in the $750,000 Group 2 Zipping Classic.
For those interested in the Thoroughbred Club Stakes, explore the available racing betting markets at your preferred Australian betting sites.