Patient handling has been the cornerstone of New York Lustre’s success, and trainer Enver Jusufovic is confident the mare is ready to take the next step when she contests Saturday’s Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield with Jamie Melham in the saddle.
Despite debuting late as a four-year-old, New York Lustre has compiled an impressive record of five wins from just nine starts. Jusufovic admits her rapid rise has surprised even him.
“In her early days, she didn’t give any indication she’d get to this point,” Jusufovic said. “Full credit goes to Mike Howard and Sarah Berry for their patience and for sticking to a system that’s clearly working for her.”
Careful placement and regular farm freshen-ups have been key to her progress. Her last start saw her run a gallant second to In Flight in the Group 3 Sir John Monash Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield, following an earlier withdrawal from the Group 3 Proud Miss Stakes (1200m) due to a barrier incident.
Jusufovic noted that the mare was not fully wound up for her first-up run but has thrived since then. “Her recent work has been terrific. Jamie and I are both confident she’s ready to peak,” he said.
With more mares enjoying longer careers at the top level, Jusufovic believes New York Lustre could remain in training beyond this season rather than heading to the breeding barn just yet.
“She’s lightly raced and has plenty of upside,” he said. “If she performs well again, we’ll likely hold off on retirement.”
Fans can view current markets and odds for the Bletchingly Stakes through Australia’s leading betting sites.