Local Wyong trainer Tracey Bartley is confident a simple gear change can spark improved performances from his team at Thursday's home track meeting, headed by promising filly Song For Rosie.
Blinkers Back On for Song For Rosie
Bartley admits he made a tactical error first-up with Song For Rosie, removing the blinkers after she travelled keenly in a barrier trial. The move backfired in her return at Taree on December 20, where she finished a three-quarter length second to Grassburn.
"She needed them in the run," Bartley stated. "She dropped the bit coming to the corner and Jett (Newman) had to really ride her along. They will go back on her this week and she will travel much better."
The daughter of Capitalist contests the Class 1 Handicap (1000m) and has drawn barrier 9, with Keagan Latham taking the ride. Bartley expects her sharp gate speed to see her jump into a prominent position.
Stablemates Ready to Fire at Home Track
Bartley also saddles up Czech Her Out, who begins her second preparation in the Midway 3YO Maiden Handicap (1100m). The filly by Prague showed promise in her first campaign, finishing just behind the placegetters in all three starts.
"She has returned a lot stronger this time in," Bartley noted. "I thought her gallop the other morning was really sharp. I think she has improved."
While blinkers have been considered for her, Bartley is holding off for now to let her fully understand racing. He believes she is well-placed to run a competitive race from a good draw.
Last Druid and Fast Blue Round Out Strong Team
The stable's chances are bolstered by two runners in the Class 1 Handicap. Former Godolphin gelding Last Druid has found form over 1350m, recording seconds at Wyong on November 16 and November 26. Bartley has engaged apprentice Mollie Fitzgerald for her claim.
"I stepped him up to 1350 metres and put the blinkers on to make him focus a bit more, and he has done exactly that," the trainer explained.
He is joined by stablemate Fast Blue, who won well at Kempsey before a fourth-placed finish at Beaumont on December 6 after a month between runs. Bartley reports the horse has improved significantly from that outing and is now ready to peak.
With a full book of runners and key gear adjustments, Tracey Bartley is poised for a successful day at his local Wyong track.
