Since wrapping up his spring campaign, Reserve Bank has been meticulously prepared by trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr for a major three-year-old sprint at Flemington.
That target race arrives this Saturday, where Reserve Bank and stablemate Hot Digity Boom will compete in the prestigious $1 million Inglis Sprint (1200m).
Kent Jnr shared that Reserve Bank was specifically aimed at this race after concluding his spring on a wet track at Caulfield in October.
“He’s a really promising horse who just missed out in a Group 2 at Flemington. After one more run, he was given a spell, and he’s come back even better,” Kent Jnr said.
“When you plan to win a big race first-up, everything has to go smoothly in preparation, and thankfully, that’s been the case.
“His preparation has been seamless, his attitude is excellent, and his trial was sharp.
“He has drawn an outside gate, which should allow him to stretch his legs properly, making him a serious contender.”
Reserve Bank has completed two jump-outs at Cranbourne ahead of Saturday’s return.
He chased home Samangu in his first on February 10 before claiming victory over 800m on February 17.
Kent Jnr indicated that if Reserve Bank performs well, he is likely to step up to Stakes level in an effort to establish himself as a future stallion.
“He remains an entire, and we’re optimistic about his potential,” Kent Jnr said.
“We have high expectations, and Saturday will provide a clearer picture of where he stands. If he delivers, we’ll raise our ambitions for him.”
Meanwhile, Hot Digity Boom will also be in the spotlight as he competes for a $200,000 bonus reserved for horses owned by all-female syndicates, including Price’s daughters.
“There are about five or six contenders eligible for the bonus, and the first one past the post earns the full $200,000, so even finishing mid-pack could be rewarding,” Kent Jnr said.
“His last race didn’t go his way. He was caught on the inside in an awkward position, and it was a tricky race overall.
“He also had a minor foot problem after that run, but he’s in good shape now. However, he’s drawn inside again, which could be challenging.
“He has a strong finish, and we wouldn’t be surprised if he produces a big run.”
Their prospects improved slightly after trainer Chris Waller opted to withdraw race favorite Gratsby, following an 800m jump-out where he placed third behind Joliestar and Traffic Warden.
Waller explained that Gratsby will instead be targeted at the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8.
“It’s disappointing because this was a suitable race, but he’s a colt, and the Newmarket is a better long-term goal,” Waller said.
“If he can get into that race with a light weight, he’s a serious contender.”
