Despite two commendable victories in the middle legs of the Princess Series, Bangkok Hottie is not currently leading the market for the series finale at Randwick. Pundits are leaning towards Striking Alibi to reverse the form.
Striking Alibi remains a solid market favourite at $2.60, with Bangkok Hottie close behind at $3.10. It’s noteworthy that Bangkok Hottie has finished ahead of Striking Alibi in both the Furious Stakes (1200m) and the Tea Rose Stakes (1400m).
Both fillies are set to contend with the mile distance for the first time in the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) on Saturday. Kerrin McEvoy, who regularly rides Bangkok Hottie, expressed his bemusement at the public’s perception, asserting that the David Payne-trained filly has proven form.
"It’s funny how everyone is always looking at the horses running on, but they’re just forgetting the obvious," McEvoy remarked.
"It doesn’t worry myself, or David, or the filly.
"She’s been doing it well. They’ve all got to tick the mile box, and I’m confident she can."
McEvoy has established a strong rapport with Bangkok Hottie, partnering her to a luckless second place in the Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) before their subsequent consecutive wins.
He drew parallels with his 2013 Flight Stakes win on Guelph, a mare who had similar lead-up form and, like Bangkok Hottie, possessed the versatility to win from the front or from behind.
"Both big and strong, well-made early season three-year-olds," McEvoy said when comparing the two.
"Well made, well put together, and with that bit of strength about them. Plus quality as well. Both have those attributes."
McEvoy believes Bangkok Hottie’s astute racing brain is a significant factor, giving him confidence in her ability to conserve energy and finish strongly over the mile.
"She’s got a good mindset for it and switches on once the gates open," he stated.
"We’ve built a nice little association, and it gives you good confidence going forward that she’s versatile and can adapt to the situation going out to the mile."
McEvoy is also set to ride Headwall in the Premiere Stakes (1200m) and The Everest (1200m). The Matt Smith-trained sprinter has been confirmed to represent the slot owned by prominent connections Max Whitby, Neil Werrett, and others.
Although McEvoy has previously trialled Headwall, Saturday will be his first race ride. With a favourable draw from barrier two, he anticipates a competitive effort.
"Great sprinter and I’m really pleased to pick up that ride for the Premiere and the Everest," McEvoy said. "It will be nice to have a ride on him on Saturday before the big one. He’s come back in good order and drawn barrier two, I’m happy with that."
Bangkok Hottie and Headwall are among McEvoy’s key rides at Randwick, which also includes Attica in the Group 1 Epsom Handicap (1600m).
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