Paul Shailer is looking to close out an impressive Queensland racing carnival with a potential Group 3 triumph in the Winx Guineas at the Sunshine Coast on Saturday, thanks to the improving form of Mister Bianco.
The Gold Coast-based trainer has already celebrated a lucrative win in the Magic Millions National Classic (1200m) with Isti Star and a placing in the Rough Habit Plate (2000m) courtesy of Deep Focus. Now, the progressive Mister Bianco heads into the Guineas as the $3 market leader.
“He pulled up really well from Ipswich,” said Shailer, referring to Mister Bianco’s win in the T L Cooney Stakes (1350m). “He’s working well and seems to be reaching his peak.”
Shailer admits the gelding has been a bit of a challenge. “He wasn’t the easiest early on — we might have tried to push him too soon. But now he’s really coming together, and it looks like our timing is spot on.”
The colt carries added sentiment as he shares ownership with the connections of Winx. Mille De Lune, trained by Matthew Smith, sits behind him in the betting at $4.50.
Shailer said the stable’s current success is built on strong horses and solid planning. “You can’t turn slow horses into winners. We’ve been fortunate to have some real talent and we’re grateful for the results.”
Future plans for Isti Star include races in Melbourne — the Listed Cap D’Antibes Stakes (1100m) and Group 3 Scarborough Stakes (1200m) — ahead of another shot at Magic Millions Day.
Punters interested in the Winx Guineas can explore betting markets and odds at Australia’s best bookmakers via justhorseracing.com.au.