Te Akau Shark attack today
SYDNEY jockey James McDonald is confident star New Zealand galloper Te Akau Shark will not let the country down in today’s Epsom Handicap.
The 5yrold will face his toughest career test when starting from barrier 15 in the 1600m handicap at Randwick.
Victory today would realise the potential that has seen him capture the attention of New Zealand racing fans.
The horse must handle the step up in class from New Zealand racing to Australia’s elite level to win.
McDonald thinks it is a task Te Akau Shark can handle.
‘‘If he gets the breaks when he needs them, he will be lethal,’’ he said.
McDonald has been impressed with the horse in his recent work.
‘‘He is a big powerful animal and he has got a terrific stride on him.’’
Trainer Jamie Richards has given Te Akau Shark one start in Australia before his Epsom tilt. His runnerup effort impressed McDonald but did not give much of a line on how he will handle his step up to the top class.
‘‘He is still a bit untapped and it is still a bit unknown how he will measure up,’’ he said. McDonald is confident he will be able to find an economical passage for Te Akau Shark from his wide draw.
Richards will attempt to create history at Hastings today with Melody Belle.
Victory in the Livamol Classic would make her the first horse to win the Hastings spring triple crown.
Richards told NZ Racing Desk the mare had worked well ahead of her shot at today’s 2040m feature.
She will start from barrier 2, which should help rider Opie Bosson find the perfect run.
Richards will also shoot for big race success with Probabeel in the Flight Stakes at Randwick, and try to qualify Te Akau Caliburn for the Melbourne Cup in the Bart Cummings at Flemington today.