Matt Smith believes punters should overlook Astero’s last-start effort, with the trainer confident the eight-year-old can bounce back at Rosehill if he produces the same form as his eye-catching third in the Civic Stakes. Astero endured a tough on-pace run when finishing down the track in the Winter Stakes but has since been freshened and trialled strongly.
“Last start he was on speed the whole way in a fast-run race and just couldn’t finish off,” Smith said. “His Civic Stakes run was terrific and if he brings that form, he’ll be very competitive. He looks great and the freshen-up at the farm has really done him the world of good.”
Astero’s proven ability on heavy tracks is another tick, with three wins and three placings from 10 starts in such conditions. He has also been well supported in early betting, firming from $51 into $23 for the NSW Jockeys Association Handicap (1300m).
Smith’s attention is also on stable star Headwall, who is set to trial at Warwick Farm on Friday as he gears up for a big spring. The talented sprinter enjoyed a superb autumn campaign, placing in both the Newmarket Handicap and TJ Smith Stakes, and Smith is hopeful he can perform his way into an Everest berth.
“He’s going really well and will likely resume in the Concorde Stakes before heading to The Shorts,” Smith explained. “After that, we’ll see where we’re at, but he’s going super.”