Tom Dabernig is optimistic that a return to Caulfield and a rain-affected track will boost the chances of Ashford Street.
Since joining Dabernig’s stable, the sprinter has had three starts: two at Caulfield, resulting in a win and a second-place finish, and one unplaced finish at Flemington.
Dabernig has had Saturday’s Group 3 Sir John Monash Stakes (1100m) in mind since Ashford Street joined his yard, and he believes the gelding is in good shape for the race.
“It’s looking a pretty good option on paper,” Dabernig said.
“It’s a race we circled before the beginning of this prep. We looked at it as a possible target and everything to date has gone well.
“His two Caulfield runs were excellent, and then at Flemington, he was unlucky.
“He’s probably more a Caulfield horse than a Flemington horse anyway.”
The rain that fell early in the week and the Caulfield track being posted in the soft range at acceptance time on Wednesday were welcome news for Dabernig.
“If this bit of rain that is about continues, it will suit him,” the trainer said.
“He likes those softer conditions, and his three runs for us have all been on good tracks.
“The purpose of having him in through winter was to try and take advantage of some softer tracks, so hopefully, they’re conditions that will suit him.
“A little bit of sting out would be ideal, as will the small field.”
Ashford Street is priced as a +450 winning hope with horse racing bookmakers for the Sir John Monash Stakes.
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