“SF” followers, standing for Sydney form, are apt to recognise him, but double-figure odds on Sibaaq may let him sneak past notice.
Betting eased to $11 on Friday, Declan Maher believes his budding operation near Gold Coast – sharing moniker with star Ciaron Maher – causes oversight for his runners against established Brisbane barns.
Fifth in Group 3 Parramatta Cup (1900m) at Rosehill February 21, Sibaaq re-enters the fray locally in Saturday’s Gold Coast Stakes (1800m).
“I think that is a general thing with a few of my runners these days as they usually get a bit of extra odds, but we are building the stable and fresh trainers to Queensland.
“In a lot of his starts I think he has blown out in the market,” Maher said.
“He was out to $27 when he just missed out (on winning) by a stride in the Mayor’s Vase.”
The eight-year-old scored 108 on Racing and Sports at Sydney, post a 113 when close in Gold Coast Mayor’s Vase (2050m) January 23.
Victoria Road mirrors those efforts as $23 topweight with 61kg this prep.
Strength in Sydney lines noted by Maher: Parramatta Cup winner Piggyback fourth in Listed Randwick City Stakes (2000m) Saturday, Travolta third in Listed Canberra Cup (2000m) Sunday after placing previously.
“He went to my brother Ciaron’s farm in Bong Bong for a week after the Sydney run and his last six weeks have been relatively quiet for him,” Maher added.
“He has only needed a couple of bits of work back home and he likes to get down to the beach at The Spit which is more to keep a smile on his face.
“Hopefully tomorrow he can do the rest.”
Complementing the Gold Coast Stakes are owners incentive features: $500,000 QTIS 2YO Jewel plus $500,000 QTIS 3YO Jewel, both 1200m.
Discover racing odds on sports betting platforms ahead of the Gold Coast Stakes.