Leading Sydney trainer Gai Waterhouse is hoping for a double-pronged attack on the Cox Plate with warhorse Theseo and blueblood More Joyous.
Waterhouse confirmed on her website that both gallopers were being prepared for the Cox Plate.
While it was expected that Theseo would target the Cox Plate, the news that More Joyous is heading to Moonee Valley is intriguing.
One of Australia’s classiest mares, she has won six of her nine starts.
However, it has not all been smooth sailing.
In a memorable Silver Slipper in 2009, she started a $1.35 favourite but she started to buck soon after jumping and lost all opportunity.
The race was won by dual Group 1 winner Melito.
She had a light spring campaign, winning the Group 2 Tea Rose Stakes (1500m) and the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) dominantly.
A big autumn campaign was planned, but it was aborted after two wins in the Group 2 Light Fingers Stakes (1200m) and Group 2 Surround Stakes (1400m).
Her ability to run 2000m is unknown, however she is bred to get the trip.
By More Than Ready out of the Oaks-winning mare Sunday Joy, she should have no problems at 2000m.
Waterhouse is looking to break her maiden in the major spring races, and looks to have a strong team this year.
Written by Andrew Hawkins
