The world’s most famous jockey Frankie Dettori loves a challenge, and he’ll certainly get that from Golden Eagle favourite Light Infantry in the $10 million feature at Rosehill on Saturday.
In a fascinating sub-plot during the draw for the world’s third-richest race on turf, Ciaron Maher and David Eustace’s $3.30 winning chance with online bookmakers was allocated barrier eight, alongside Welwal.
Dettori will pilot master trainer Chris Waller’s mid-ranger runner – in Sydney to contest the lucrative 1500m event from the Jean-Claude Rouget stable in France – from the nine lane.
The champion 51-year-old rider knows just how competitive talented colt Light Infantry will be.
“We’ve drawn next to each other, and at his last run in France I just beat him in a Group 1 on an incredible mare called Inspiral,” he said.
“So he’ll be a tough opponent. Once those gates open we have no friends.”
But Dettori also has a whole-hearted competitor who he will team up with.
Welwal has only run worse than second twice from seven starts in France.
And he has looked strong in two barrier trials in Sydney since arriving from the Northern Hemisphere.
“His form in Europe is decent,” Dettori said.
“It’s hard to compare the French form to the Australian form, but he’s definitely got some talent and we’ll see what he’s made of on Saturday.
“He (Waller) was very nice because I asked him if I could ride a couple races before the big one and he’s put me on a few so it will give me a feel of the track.”
Dettori has won more than 200 Group 1 races all over the world, but he knows the margin for error will be small in the Golden Eagle.
He said a tour of the track alongside former champion jockey Corey Brown was invaluable.
“I’ve been watching Australian racing on TV most mornings and I thought the track was a little bit tighter,” he said.
“It looks quite tight on the TV, but Corey showed me the bends and the straight and the grass looks in great condition so I’m looking forward to it.
“There will be 20 runners in a $10 million race so it’s going to be very competitive.”
Dettori will also ride in the first edition of the $2 million Big Dance (1600m) at Randwick on Tuesday, and is on $5 favourite Hosier for Kris Lees.
“I’m looking forward to riding in it for my good old friend (owner) Lloyd Williams, who has been a good pal of mine and a big supporter,” Dettori said.
“That is another big race and will be another big challenge.”
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