Trainer Brad Widdup saw Savvy Hallie dominate out front during the Light Fingers Stakes and now trusts jockey Nash Rawiller’s judgment for tactics in her Group One tilt at champion filly Tempted in the Surround Stakes at Randwick.
The three-year-old is the standout speed in the curated eight-horse affair, but Widdup is prepared for any opponent to quicken the pace early, knowing the duo can handle shifts.
“I’ll leave it up to Nash. You never know, someone might want to go a bit hard this time around,” Widdup said.
“We can only worry about ourselves, and we’re very happy with her. She’s had a trouble free preparation, so fingers crossed she can keep going.”
From stall six in the quality field of eight, Savvy Hallie faces Everest nearly-winner Tempted, Flight Stakes conqueror Apocalyptic and Thousand Guineas queen Ole Dancer in her Sydney bow.
Weather watchers note possible showers, with the Bureau of Meteorology eyeing 3mm minimum to 60mm maximum ahead.
Widdup remains unconcerned, Savvy Hallie versed in good and heavy conditions alike.
Away from past Surround Stakes (1400m) triumphs himself, Widdup witnessed Portillo (2009) and Parables (2011) succeed from Crown Lodge and rates Savvy Hallie likewise.
“Portillo was a good two-year-old and trained on, Parables came later. But I think Savvy Hallie is definitely in their mould,” he said.
“You never get too carried away with this sort of race, but it’s great to have a really good chance.
“She hasn’t gone backwards and you’d like to think she should be competitive.”
Tempted earned $1.60 favoritism right after Wednesday’s field announcement, followed by Apocalyptic ($4.20), Ole Dancer ($8.50) and Savvy Hallie ($9.50) as the only sub-$10 chances.
Head to sports betting platforms for the best betting markets for the race at Randwick’s Surround Stakes.