Trainers like Michael Freedman are glued to updates on Randwick conditions as Apocalyptic prepares to duel Tempted in the Surround Stakes.
Bound to line up regardless, the Group 1 filly’s handler warns his expectations drop if beyond soft 7 from Friday intensifies.
“I’m looking forward to seeing her back there. I am just keeping an eye on the weather,” Freedman said.
“Anything in the soft range would be OK, but if we got into that heavy range it may change things a wee bit.
“You probably can’t not run because she has never been on heavy. But I get the feeling she wouldn’t want it too wet.”
Apocalyptic scooped three Princess Series races spring prior, resuming favourite but eclipsed by Savvy Hallie when second in the Light Fingers Stakes (1200m).
The trainer labelled it “good enough” against on-pace runners, pleased with her three-year-old development since.
Tempted and returning Savvy Hallie fill Surround Stakes (1400m) opposition, lacking proof at distance.
Freedman concedes positives aplenty, endorsing $1.60 favourite Tempted’s credentials.
“I know a few people have queried Tempted at 14 (1400 metres), but to my eye she looks like she’d run it out pretty solidly,” he said.
“She’s run second in an Everest and was obviously impressive first-up. She’s the one that’s got the really good from going into it.”
Track saturation may test Apocalyptic, but Guy Walter Stakes (1400m) hope Manaal thrives there, 3/5 on wet.
Second on return in Triscay Stakes (1200m), ideal weights position her strongly at Randwick.
“She’s a terrific mare. She’s always thereabouts,” Freedman said.
“She has a slightly tougher draw than what she’s had the last few, but if we do get a bit of rain and the track is genuinely soft, it might offset that.”
In the Sweet Embrace Stakes (1200m), tough filly Hardanger eyes repeat success, while Outspan’s wide post prompts Skyline Stakes (1200m) dilemma or Black Opal Stakes (1200m) wait at Canberra.
“It was a pretty ordinary set up for him two weeks ago, unfortunately, and it doesn’t look much better for him this week if we don’t get a lot of scratchings,” Freedman said.
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