A distance query hovers over the comeback of Frequendly, favourite for the Bruce McLachlan Memorial Classic at the Sunshine Coast.
Frequendly was an early-season star among Queensland’s two-year-olds, winning three races and finishing an unlucky third at her first four starts.
She was never a winning hope when 12th behind Le Chef in the Magic Millions Classic on January 10, her only start over 1200m and the distance of Saturday’s race.
“The 1200 metres is a real worry. It is hard to get a line on how she will go at the distance,” trainer Les Ross said.
“It is an ask for a filly like her to tackle 1200 first-up but we had no choice with the races available.”
Ross said Frequendly had spelled nicely and was doing well in the stables since coming back from a break.
“She’s gone well in a couple of jump-outs and worked well,” he said.
The distance doubt has Ross undecided about the direction of Frequendly’s winter campaign.
“If she can’t run a strong 1200 metres we will have to look at the set-weight QTIS races. It wouldn’t be much use looking at races like the BRC Sires’ over 1350 (metres),” Ross said.
“In handicaps she would get 60 kilograms and she is not really an apprentice’s horse.
“She goes well for Brad (Stewart) so I would like to stick with him.”
Meanwhile, owner Neville Bell will leave the final decision on a start for The Wildman in the McLachlan Memorial to trainer Mick Mair.
The Wildman drew barrier 15 in the field of 16.
“I am inclined to run but Mick will have the final say,” Bell said.
