A preparation handicap
GOLD Coast trainer Toby Edmonds is hoping the Stradbroke Handicap is a lot less nerve-racking than the lead-up to the race.
Edmonds is off to England at the weekend to oversee the final preparation of Houtzen for the Kings Stand Stakes at Ascot on June 18.
He is growing in confidence he can leave with his biggest win on the trophy shelf. Tyzone has been prominent in markets for tomorrow’s Group 1 race since his strong finishing win in the BRC Sprint on May 18.
The win elevated Tyzone in markets to follow 2014 Stradbroke winner River Lad as the only horses to complete the double. It has been a rollercoaster ride for Edmonds and connections since. Tyzone was thought to be a certain runner but was then pushed into the emergencies and finally back into the field as several first acceptances were not declared for the final field.
The low-key Edmonds admitted it had been a trying time.
“One moment everyone was saying we would be in the field and then it looked as though we were out,” Edmonds said.
It also led to speculation about jockey Tommy Berry who had a firm booking for Tyzone but was then mentioned for four other runners if Tyzone failed to get a run.
Edmonds took Tyzone to Eagle Farm on Tuesday morning to work on the course proper.
“It gave him a look at the track and he worked solidly. It topped him off nicely,” Edmonds said.
The last piece of the puzzle fell into place when Tyzone drew barrier 12 but will probably start from eight if the emergencies do not get a start. “He is a horse who doesn’t want to get too clogged up in the field. A little bit away from the fence is ideal,” Edmonds said.
“I would rather he came down the outside than trying to take a run between horses.
“Tom is in great form and it will make it easier for him to do that.”