Waugh says Shiraz can go Rosehill distance
SHIRAZ, the horse who finished 10 lengths behind Winx last start in the Group 2 ATC Apollo Stakes (1400m), is back in action at Rosehill for a much easier assignment on Saturday.
The Kim Waugh-trained son of Zariz hasn’t raced since his February 13 clash with the mighty Winx but put the writing on the wall with an outstanding barrier trial win at home at Wyong on May 22 where he beat class mare Danish Twist by three lengths.
Shiraz is a noted fresh performer winning half of his eight first-up appearances, with Rosehill a favoured venue with four wins and two seconds from his seven visits.
“He trialled beautifully,’’ Waugh said.
“This time we’ve only been able to give him the one trial but he didn’t have a long time off. He only had the four weeks, so I think that he should be OK.”
Shiraz has won 10 races from 27 starts at distances ranging from 900m up to 1350m and while Saturday’s race is over the 1400m, it is hardly a cause for concern.
“He ran second in the Carrington over 1400m,’’ Waugh said. “He obviously won’t be 100 per cent fit but he’ll still be fairly forward.’’