Following her impressive performance in the Listed Matamata Cup (1600m) last Saturday, La Crique is set to answer Sydney’s call.
Trainers Simon and Katrina Alexander had withdrawn her from the Group 1 Arrowfield Sud Plate (1600m) a week earlier, opting instead for a local mile hit-out where the lightly-framed mare carried a hefty 60kg.
Facing tough competition, including star mare Legarto, La Crique, guided by Jasmine Fawcett, took an early lead and controlled the race, only to feel the weight down the straight and finish third behind her more favored rival.
Katrina Alexander expressed satisfaction with the performance, indicating the confidence to proceed with their Sydney spring plans.
“I think we had to go forward carrying that weight, it would have just made it harder for her chasing anything from the back,” said Alexander.
Despite the challenges, Alexander praised Fawcett’s race-riding tactics.
“The horse showed she wanted to let down in the straight, but she is probably one of the lightest-weighing racehorses out there, let alone lugging that weight around.”
Describing the run as “nice and brave,” Alexander was pleased with the outcomes.
“We achieved what we wanted to – she had to have a hit-out, and it was nice to see if we could resume our normal racing pattern if we wanted to, which she did.
“Everything went to plan, and it was as good as we could have expected from the day.”
Looking ahead, La Crique is scheduled to fly to Sydney later in the week for upcoming challenges, including the Group 3 Craven Plate (2000m) and the A$2 million Five Diamonds (1800m).
“She is booked to fly on Sunday, so as long as we are happy with her this week, we will continue with those plans.”
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