Michael Lane is hoping to end The Boss Lady’s current campaign on a high when she lines up in Saturday’s Group 3 Belmont Sprint (1400m) at Belmont, ahead of a planned break before the Ascot summer carnival.

The talented mare began her prep with victory in the Roma Cup (1100m), ran sixth in the Quokka (1200m), and followed up with a fast-finishing fifth behind West Star in the Northam Stakes (1300m).

“Maybe I’m being tough on her, but I expected a bit more late,” Lane said. “That said, she was well back and ran on nicely. It was a fair effort.”

West Star, who beat her home last time, is the $2.80 favourite for the Belmont Sprint with Tabtouch. Western Empire is second pick at $4.80, and The Boss Lady sits third in the market at $7.50.

“It’s a strong field and West Star is clearly the one to beat,” Lane said. “But we’ve drawn well this time in barrier six, which should allow her to settle much closer.”

Shaun McGruddy takes over from Joe Azzopardi, who has opted to ride Triple Missile. Lane is upbeat about his mare’s condition leading into the race.

“She’s going along really well and she’ll be in the mix,” he said. “This will be her final run before a spell and we’ll get her ready for some nice races later in the year.”

Lane also has Six Shooter engaged earlier on the card and believes the Pinjarra winner can figure in the finish again.

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