Weighty matters for Imperatriz connections
Te Akau Racing has reserved a decision on Imperatriz’s next start until the likely field and weights for the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) become clearer.
Imperatriz, a $4.50 favourite with TAB for the $2m sprint on March 9 at Flemington, defeated Private Eye by a long neck in the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes on Saturday at Flemington.
A return to Flemington is linked to the weight the mare would be required to carry.
The minimum top weight for the Newmarket Handicap is 58kg.
Private Eye finished fourth last year as a 58kg top weight.
Should they both nominate, Private Eye and Imperatriz could be equal top weights.
Based on class and consistency, 57.5kg – equivalent to male 59.5kg – is the minimum weight likely to be considered for Imperatriz.
Legendary mare Black Caviar carried 58kg to victory in the 2011 Newmarket Handicap.
Te Akau boss David Ellis said weight would be a defining factor in whether Imperatriz contested the Newmarket or defended her William Reid crown at The Valley.
The T.J. Smith Stakes on April 6 is the autumn goal for the nine-time Group 1 champion.
“We want to see what weight she gets and then we can make a decision,” Ellis said.
“I’d like to see the field and what she’s up against first.”
Imperatriz has feasted on weightfor-age Australian Group 1 sprints the past 12 months.
The five-year-old has carried 56.5kg to victory in the William Reid Stakes, Moir Stakes, Manikato Stakes, Champions Sprint and Black Caviar Lightning Stakes.
“She licked her bowl out last night, so we will make a decision next week when (trainer) Mark (Walker) goes back to have a look at her,” Ellis said.
“There are a couple of options, one is the Newmarket.”
Imperatriz is a $1.80 favourite with TAB for the William Reid Stakes on March 23 and $3.50 market leader for the T.J. Smith Stakes in Sydney on April 6.
Ellis reaffirmed the plan to race Imperatriz in Australia this year.
“We’re pretty happy with Melbourne and our new stable and supporting racing in Victoria, so we’re pretty happy to stay there,” Ellis said.
Private Eye has piqued the interest of Royal Ascot scout Nick Smith.
“The horse is clearly consistent, Smith said on Saturday. “The profile of the horse is going up, third in The Everest (and) second in the Lightning . . . he’s top class.
“It is a shame they (Te Akau) have ruled out travelling (Imperatriz), but we completely respect that.
“But in her absence, Private Eye appears to be the logical, he’s given her (Imperatriz) a proper workout . . . he’d be the target right now.”