Bjorn eyeing higher prize
TRAINER Bjorn Baker has summed up what many stables are thinking going into the Tattersall’s Tiara.
Baker has race favourite Champagne Cuddles in the final Group 1 race of the season at Doomben on Saturday.
Champagne Cuddles has been minor placed in her four attempts at Group 1 class including thirds at her past two starts in the Kingsford Smith Cup and then the Stradbroke Handicap at Doomben two weeks ago.
Asked if Champagne Cuddles won on Saturday, would the $13 million The Everest at Randwick on October be on the horizon, Baker had a simple reply.
“I think we (all trainers in the race) would like to be going to The Everest,” Baker said.
The Sydney trainer said any race with such prestige and prizemoney would be worth chasing to get a place.
Baker said while all trainers say they will take the races one at a time, Saturday really would determine Champagne Cuddles’ future plans.
“I would obviously love to finish her three-year-old season with her a Group 1 winner,” he said. “You don’t need me to tell you how important black-type is for a filly in regards the breeding barn.”
At her past two starts Champagne Cuddles has been forced to go back looking for cover from wide barriers.
“But she should be able to race closer this time from barrier four,” Baker said.
The Stradbroke has proved a good lead-up for the Tiara with five of the past 10 winners coming through the race.
Champagne Cuddles, Super Cash (second) and Invincible Gem (ninth) are the three mares backing up this year from the Stradbroke.
If she can win, Champagne Cuddles will join 2014 Magic Millions Classic winner Unencumbered and 2015 Doomben 10,000 winner Music Magnate as million-dollar-plus earners for the Baker stable.