Winx looks good for new year outing
THIS year is looking brighter than ever for Australia’s champion racehorse Winx as Chris Waller revealed “he couldn’t have her any better” ahead of the mighty mare’s first public appearance for 2018 today.
Winx will barrier trial against Australia’s best sprinter Redzel at Rosehill this morning ahead of her much anticipated return to racing next month.
Trainer Waller said Winx was niggle-free and feeling on top of the world as she bids to extend her winning streak to 23 in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on February 17.
“She is as sound as she has ever been and her attitude is fantastic,” he said.
“Her work has been good, which makes me pretty excited about the prep ahead.
“She has come back very well and she is no different to any prep in the last 12 months.
“She was a bigger, stronger horse 12 months ago and she is exactly the same now.”
Winx might be a star on race day but she has only won one barrier trial from 16 attempts. And don’t expect her to improve on that record today.
“She will trial OK without being put under any pressure,” Waller said.
“We are still 26 days out from her first-up run and I couldn’t have her any better.
“We will take it one run at a time and each race is important, as are the people who follow her, wherever they are.”
Waller has hinted Winx is likely to head overseas this year if she is 100 per cent, with a date with the Queen at Royal Ascot in England the most likely option.
But he said all plans would be confirmed after the George Ryder Stakes at Rosehill on March 24.
Winx’s 900m trial, which also features last year’s Victoria Derby winner Ace High, is heat one today at 8.15am.