Jockey Tyler Schiller is optimistic about Swiftfalcon’s chances of turning the tables on Broadsiding when they face off again in the Group One Randwick Guineas after a strong performance last start.
In the Hobartville Stakes (1400m), Swiftfalcon had to settle at the rear from a wide draw but produced a remarkable finish, closing within a length of Godolphin’s high-class colt.
With a more favorable barrier on Saturday, Schiller expects a more competitive race from Swiftfalcon.
“I thought that late, he was stronger than Broadsiding,” Schiller said when reflecting on the Hobartville Stakes performance.
“Obviously, he’s a quality colt Broadsiding, and he probably would have found a bit more if we challenged right up alongside him.
“I suppose we’ll see on the weekend. It’s going to be a good fight, and hopefully for my sake we come out on top.”
Broadsiding is the clear favorite in early markets for the Randwick Guineas (1600m), with Swiftfalcon sitting at $4 as the second pick.
Swiftfalcon has drawn barrier five in the nine-horse field, directly outside Broadsiding, and Schiller is looking to secure a better position in the running.
“He jumped quite sharply in his trial from a good draw and then when he drew badly (in the Hobartville Stakes), it’s sort of his racing pattern but it wasn’t where I wanted to be. I would have loved to be midfield following Broadsiding,” he said.
“The draw on the weekend offers us a few more options if he jumps well.”
Schiller will also take the reins aboard Airman for Hawkes Racing in the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m). He believes a stronger pace will benefit Airman after finishing fifth behind Magic Time in the Expressway Stakes (1200m).
“They went very steady and it was a dash home. I thought for a fleeting moment at the 200 that he was going to go on with it and be right in the finish and he just got a bit tired late,” Schiller said.
“A bit more tempo would be lovely for him and he’ll be around the mark.”
Airman has demonstrated his ability when racing second-up, including an impressive victory over Mazu and Bella Nipotina in the Premiere Stakes (1200m) at Randwick last spring.
