Matamata trainer Stephen Autridge has adopted a quality-over-quantity approach in his stable, and the results are evident.
With just 15 horses in his care, a third of them are three-year-old fillies eyeing the Group 1 NZ 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton next month.
Livid Sky made a significant impression at Tauranga on Wednesday, solidifying her candidature for a southern trip.
Autridge expressed his optimism, stating, “She has come a long way in a hurry, but we have always liked her. I think that she is a horse that will continue to improve.”
Highlighting Livid Sky’s minimal racing experience compared to her peers, Autridge mentioned, “Livid Sky has done the least (amount of racing of the five fillies), with one trial and two races, so she is catching up in a hurry. She will be chucked in the deep end in the Soliloquy Stakes (Group 2, 1400m) in her next start.”
Concerns arose with stablemate Midnight Monarch, who finished eighth in the same race.
Autridge shared disappointment and revealed plans for an inspection.
“We were disappointed with Midnight Monarch yesterday, so we are going to give her a check out today.”
Looking ahead, Autridge is eager to showcase Tears Of Victory and Loch Katrine at their home track on Saturday, progressing toward Riccarton.
“They were spot on on Tuesday, and they are both a good chance on Saturday. If they are going the right way after Saturday, they will also head to the Soliloquy.”
Still Bangon completes Autridge’s contingent of 1000 Guineas hopefuls, and he believes in her potential to secure a spot in the field.
He stated, “We are still a chance with Still Bangon. She has already won a race, which was taken off her, and she was unlucky the other day. They are all pretty good hopes.”
While anticipating the performance of his fillies on Saturday, Autridge is also excited about Stylish Red.
“She will be ridden quietly as she goes her best races when ridden quietly. I believe she is a good eachway chance.”
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