Anthony and Sam Freedman are taking a steady approach as they establish their Sydney stable, prioritizing attention to detail while keeping their numbers small. They hope to make an impression at Randwick on Saturday with their promising juveniles.
“There’s no rush to expand beyond the 24 boxes we currently have,” Sam Freedman told Sky Sports Radio.
“Anthony wanted to be hands-on with a smaller team, ensuring the horses get the best possible care and training.
“Having a stable in Sydney is one thing, but having the trainer based there makes all the difference.”
The stable’s main contender this weekend is Neilsen Park, a $650,000 purchase from the 2024 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, set to debut in the Group 2 Skyline Stakes (1200m).
“He’s a horse we’ve always had an opinion of,” Freedman said.
“His early trials were a learning experience—he was raw at Flemington but has shown improvement.
“His latest trial in Sydney was his best yet, and we’re keen to see how he progresses.”
Neilsen Park is currently a $34 outsider with betting sites, with Shaggy the $2.20 favourite.
The Freedmans also have two fillies entered in the Group 2 Sweet Embrace Stakes.
Inkaruna claimed victory in the Group 3 Chairman’s Stakes (1000m) at Sandown on February 1, while Price Tag is searching for her first win after four black-type runs.
“Both fillies have had solid preparations,” Freedman said.
“Inkaruna had a maintenance trial last week, and her form stacks up—Tentyris, who finished behind her, was runner-up in the Blue Diamond.
“Price Tag covered extra ground last start but still showed toughness late.”
The Sweet Embrace Stakes is a key lead-up to the $5 million Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m) on March 22, with Inglis Millennium (1100m) quinella Rivellino and Within The Law, as well as Lonhro Plate (1000m) winner Bellazaine, set to feature.
