Sargent hopes his pair can dominate visitors in ‘Origin’
TRAINER John Sargent says there’s a State of Origin feel to the $7.5 million Golden Eagle (1500m) at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday.
Sargent will saddle up Brandenburg and Emeralds in Sydney’s second richest race against some formidable nationwide opposition.
“The Golden Eagle is a great race for four-year-olds, it is keeping horses in work and in Sydney,’’ Sargent said.
“There’s the horse from Queensland, Alligator Blood, the two from Western Australia, Superstorm and Windstorm, plus the Victorians, Groundswell and Sierra Sue.
“They are coming from everywhere.
“This race has a State of Origin feel to it but I’m hoping we can keep the trophy in Sydney, particularly after Melbourne Storm won the (NRL) grand final.’’
In latest betting with Ladbrokes ahead of Tuesday’s crucial barrier draw, Brandenburg and Emeralds are at $15 and $17 respectively, behind favourite Funstar at $4.50.
Sargent said he would send two fit, in-form horses to Rosehill knowing both would handle the expected soft track conditions.
“Brandenburg likes Rosehill and loves the wet, and so does Emeralds,’’ Sargent said.
“I’m not overly concerned about the barrier draw as Emeralds will be midfield early, that’s the closest she will be.
“A good draw for Brandenburg would be nice, somewhere between five and eight preferably, as he will settle closer but, if he gets a wide barrier, he does have good early speed.’’
Sargent confirmed
Jason
Collett would ride Emeralds and Regan Bayliss picked up the mount on Brandenburg.
The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott stable also hope to have multiple runners, with Dawn Passage and Riodini confirmed starters and Just Thinkin’ a borderline entry to make the 18-horse field.
“It’s not ideal for Dawn Passage if we get a wet track but he will still takes his place in the field,’’ Bott said.