Sprint star Buffering heads to Hong Kong next week in peak condition despite loafing in a winning jump-out at Flemington.
Brisbane trainer Robert Heathcote made a flying visit to Melbourne on Friday to oversee Buffering’s last gallop before his overseas flight.
Without blinkers Heathcote said Buffering, who was ridden by Craig Williams, was lazier than he thought he would be.
“We have always known he can be lazy,” Heathcote said.
“We left the blinkers off on purpose because I didn’t want to smash him as he’s had three very tough runs during the spring.
“I’m happy with his fitness levels and he pulled up well. His recovery was almost instantaneous.”
Buffering leaves for Hong Kong on Monday to contest the International Sprint over 1200m at Sha Tin on December 14.
Heathcote said Buffering was in perfect shape for his flight to Hong Kong and said the gelding would not be asked to do a great deal in the lead-up to the International Sprint on December 14.
He said there were some unanswered questions as to how Buffering would handle the 10 hours he would spend on the plane.
Buffering goes to Hong Kong having not raced since finishing fourth to Terravista in the Darley Classic (1200m) at Flemington on November 8.
Terravista beat Chautauqua and Lankan Rupee in the Darley with the trio now ranked the top three sprinters in the world.
“I’ve got him pretty much where I need him,” Heathcote said.
“I’ve just got to keep him fresh, enthusiastic and happy and I’m not underestimating how hard it’s going to be.”
Heathcote said Racing Victoria head vet Dr Brian Stewart, who spent nine years working in Hong Kong, had given Buffering a clean bill of health.
Regular partner Damian Browne rides Buffering with Heathcote hoping for a good draw to enable him use his ability to jump quickly and race on the speed.
