Ahead of Treasurethe Moment’s first-up assignment, her trainer Matt Laurie may opt for a Caulfield return to polish off the mare’s current campaign.
The Group 1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on Saturday week marks her return, following a Wednesday appearance at Caulfield Heath for a jump-out.
Treasurethe Moment surged to the front immediately in the 1000m trial and maintained control under Damian Lane’s handling.
Though Laurie felt leading lacked the desired pressure, Lane expressed satisfaction with the work.
“I was hoping there would be a horse or two in there that would charge along, but unfortunately those ones were scratched,” Laurie said.
“It seemed likely that she would lead and she was quick away, but that’s the sort of horse she is, she gets there but comes off the bit, just touching the bridle.
She doesn’t work too hard, she relaxes beautifully. She was asked to quicken up a bit in the last two furlongs (400m), and she did that well and Damian was happy.”
Melbourne Racing Club gallops at Caulfield next Tuesday set the scene for Saturday week’s Group 1s: the Blue Diamond Stakes, Futurity Stakes and Oakleigh Plate.
In a nod to her previous fresh victory in the Group 1 Memsie Stakes at the same track and distance, Laurie could send Treasurethe Moment for another gallop there.
“Another trip away for her final gallop wouldn’t hurt and then we’re ready to go,” Laurie said. “She’s done a lot of galloping at Mornington, so one more trip away would be great, but if not, we’ve got a great surface down there anyway. But either way, I’m happy with the prep so far and if she can produce what she did last time, she will be right there.” There are attractive betting markets for the race already open for the Futurity Stakes.
The post Treasure ticking over for Futurity Stakes return first appeared on Just Horse Racing.