Trainer on edge as big unknown approaches

INSTINCT tells David Hayes to expect the unexpected in tomorrow’s Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes at Caulfield.

And if Tulip, Formality or Will’s Bid happen to upstage favourite and stablemate Catchy, he won’t be surprised.

But there are times when the glaringly obvious is inescapable — as Hayes concedes with unbeaten, impeccably bred Catchy.

“She hasn’t put a foot wrong,” he said.

“She reminds me a lot of a couple of the star two-year-olds we’ve had through the stable over the years.

“(Assistant trainer) Gary Fennessy correctly said she reminds (him) of Midnight Fever, who won the race very well a lot of years ago (1987) for dad (Colin). And Craig (Williams) has always compared her to (2006 Golden Slipper winner) Miss Finland.”

Catchy is TAB’s $6 favourite, but Hayes also likes the chances of Coolmore-owned pair Tulip and Formality.

“I know (Tulip) got beat last start, but it was a long time between starts. She’s been tuned up and she’s got a great barrier,” he said.

“And Formality’s form going into it is impeccable, so I’d probably lean to those three because the colts (Wait For No One, Muraahib and Will’s Bid) have drawn bad barriers and they’re probably going to get back. Will’s Bid is a really good colt for the future, a horse to follow out of the race.”