Headley Grange, a consistent performer at Randwick, is set to contest the $3 million Big Dance on Melbourne Cup day despite drawing barrier 16. Trainer Joe Pride remains confident that the five-year-old can overcome the wide gate and continue his impressive form at the Warwick Farm stable.
Since joining Pride’s stable, Headley Grange has recorded 10 wins and six placings from 19 starts. His most recent victory came in the $1.5 million Alan Brown Stakes, where he defeated Group 1 winner Gringotts. Pride has followed the same training regime that led to that success, including a three-week gap between runs.
“He’s had a three-week gap which is what he had going into his previous run and that seemed to work really well for him, so we haven’t changed anything up,” Pride said. The trainer also noted that the step back to a mile and potentially wet ground at Randwick would suit his horse.
Regarding the barrier draw, Pride believes it may not be a significant disadvantage. “I don’t think it will matter too much by that stage, we’ll be Race 5 and we’ve had a lot of meetings here lately,” he said. “I can only assume that probably the better ground is going to be out a bit wider so I’m not too worried.”
Headley Grange has an outstanding record at Randwick, with three wins and two seconds from five starts. Pride praised his consistency, saying, “Since the time he landed in my stable, he won the first start I gave him. Particularly in the last 12 months if he doesn’t win he runs second, so he’s a very consistent horse.”
In betting markets, Headley Grange is the second favorite at $5, behind Gringotts at $3.30. The Big Dance is scheduled for 2.20pm on Tuesday at Royal Randwick.
