Ill Payne to get chance
Kaspersky’s owners go with Nolen as Toorak Handicap stand-in
MICHELLE Payne remains likely to partner Kaspersky this spring despite forfeiting the prized Toorak Handicap ride on the import because of illness.
The Melbourne Cupwinning jockey told trainer Jane Chapple-Hyam she would not be fit enough to ride at Caulfield on Saturday after missing trackwork for the second time in four days.
Luke Nolen has been given the ride after discussions with Kaspersky’s owners, Ernest and Ronda Clarke.
The Clarkes indicated Payne would be given every chance to reclaim the mount, regardless of whether Kaspersky challenges Winx in the Cox Plate or heads to the Cantala Stakes at Flemington on Derby day.
Chapple-Hyam said Payne deserved credit “for putting her hand” and saying she could not ride in a Group 1 race.
“I think if someone’s crook or ill or whatever word you want to use and they admit they’re not able to ride a horse then good on her for putting her hand up and saying she’s not 100 per cent,” she said.
“There’s lots of flu going around Melbourne. I’ve got a bit of a head cold myself.
“So, unfortunately, she’s not able to ride and we’ve gone and engaged Luke Nolen.
“Mr and Mrs Clarke are happy with that and I’m happy with that.”
Payne was badly injured in a fall at Mildura last year.
Chapple-Hyam said Kaspersky’s performance in the Toorak would shape plans for the rest of the spring.
“I’ve got to sit down with Mr and Mrs Clarke and even bring Michelle into the conversation and Luke, and we’ll just see whether we’re going for the Cox Plate or we’ve got the alternative on Derby day, the Cantala,” she said.
“The horse is good. He did a nice gallop on Sunday and we’re just ticking him over until race day.
“His race weight is all good and he’s eating well.
“We’re looking forward to it.”