Though Barrengarry met an early stumble a few Saturdays prior, the three-year-old now steps up to Group ranks at this Saturday’s Sydney Autumn Carnival.
Progression continues for the gelding in Randwick’s $250,000 Frank Packer Plate (2000m).
As a Group 3 affair arriving two weeks after the Carbine Club Stakes—from which he was an acceptor but scratched for a niggling matter—trainer Joe Ible of Kembla Grange relishes the spotlight opportunity.
“He was in to run in the Carbine a week ago but he just wasn’t 100 percent so we scratched him,” the Kembla Grange trainer said.
“He looks like he’s bounced back nicely. He had a good trial on Friday at Canterbury.
“Horses like this are what we get out of bed every day and do it for. To have a horse like him walk in the stable, it certainly invigorates you and gets you going.”
Aiming to secure three wins in a row, Barrengarry meets challengers encompassing Eureka Rebel, second in the Tulloch Stakes, Providence from Moonee Valley Vase runner-up spot, and Carbine Club Stakes finishers Matias third with Olympian fourth, this Saturday.
The Ghaiyyath offspring’s journey is surprisingly accelerated, kicking off fourth in November’s 1200m Nowra maiden.
February 17 saw a third over 1400m locally, then a stylish 1600m victory at Newcastle March 6, capped by 1500m Midway honours versus older foes at Rosehill March 21.
His most recent was Friday’s subdued 1100m trial, fifth of seven beaten by a shade over four lengths.
Barrengarry’s development has invigorated a surprised Ible, who eyes greater heights this term if the weekend proves fruitful.
“He’s always shown us something, but I wouldn’t have thought he’d be getting there as quickly as he has,” Ible said.
“The way he’s progressed this preparation, he still looks a bit backward and his mannerisms are a bit immature, so out of this preparation you start to think about what the future could be.
“If he was to go out and perform as we hope (this weekend) there’s a chance we’ll end up in Brisbane.”
Aiming north to the $1 million Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm, May 30.
Check betting markets for the race across top sports betting platforms for Frank Packer Plate action.
