Tasmanian mare spelled after exhausting Plate run

STAR Tasmanian mare Mystic Journey is set to spend time in the spelling paddock at trainer Adam Trinder’s Latrobe property after finishing a gallant fifth in last Saturday’s Cox Plate at Moonee Valley.

The four-year-old mare emerged from the outing in good order, but Trinder said: “She definitely knows she’s been in a race. She goes to the paddock at home tomorrow and we’ll give her the spell she needs and bring her back to prepare for her next mission which will be the defence of her All-Star Mile crown in the autumn.

“She’s earned a rest and the only possible option was the Mackinnon Stakes, but timingwise that wouldn’t be ideal.”

Mystic Journey won the inaugural $5 million All-Star Mile at Flemington in March, but next year’s event will be at Caulfield where the mare has won twice from three starts.

“She would more than likely resume racing in Tasmania in a 1200m weight-for-age race in January and then head to the Thomas Lyons [1400m] also at weight-for-age.”

Mystic Journey won the Thomas Lyons last season as a lead-up to the Australian Guineas, which she won before winning the All-Star Mile.

On a sad note, White Gold, the dam of Mystic Journey, has died after giving birth to her latest foal. White Gold was humanely euthanised last week at the age of 17 after suffering a broken leg she sustained when recovering from a caesarean delivery at Armidale Stud.

“We are absolutely shattered,” Armidale Stud’s principal David Whishaw said.

“We agreed with White Gold’s owners that it would be best that we break the news following the running of the Cox Plate. It’s been a tough week for everyone involved to say the least”.

“She was a beautiful natured mare, a pleasure to do anything with and we are so grateful for all she has done for the Tasmanian Breeding and Racing Industry.

“White Gold’s owners Ralph and Peta Zito, and Joe and Rhonda Cichello have been wonderful supporters, friends and ambassadors of the Tasmanian industry.”

White Gold’s legacy will no doubt carry on, not only through Mystic Journey and her unraced 3YO Full sister Emerald Crown, but through Oh So Gold and Gold Phoenix.