A Group One victory and a saloon passage into the Doncaster Mile are the two carrots for star on the rise Niagara at Rosehill on Saturday.
Niagara recorded an impressive victory in last Saturday’s Group Two Ajax Stakes (1500m) and lines up over the same course and distance in Saturday’s Group One George Ryder Stakes (1500m).
The strength of his Ajax win has propelled him to favouritism for the George Ryder in a capacity field which includes 10 Group One winners.
Niagara is currently equal 32nd in the Doncaster Mile order of entry after he was not re-handicapped for his Ajax win to remain on the 52kg limit.
The winner of the George Ryder is exempt from ballot for the Doncaster on April 21.
The Ryder will be the Gai Waterhouse-trained colt’s first attempt in weight-for-age company.
“It’s just another step up,” Niagara’s jockey Tommy Berry said.
“If he can win this it’s another string to his bow. I think he’s the right horse for it but he’s got to be competitive in this to be a good chance in the Doncaster.”
Berry had ridden Niagara in trackwork but hadn’t had the chance to ride the three-year-old in a race until the Ajax.
He was pleasantly surprised by the turn of foot the son of Encosta De Lago unleashed from the 350m mark.
“He was up against the older horses last week so to put them away like he did was outstanding,” Berry said.
“He had a really good turn of foot and it was the first time he’s really showed us that sort of turn of foot as he’s usually a bit more dour.
“I think the penny is finally starting to drop with him which is good because he’s going to have to be right on his game on Saturday and also in the Doncaster if he goes there.”
Niagara has to overcome barrier 16 in the field of 17 on Saturday.
“The barrier is a bit awkward for him but he’s got good tactical speed,” Berry said.
“I think he’s a massive chance.”
Niagara is at $5 with TAB Sportsbet with star New Zealander King Mufhasa on the second line of betting at $7.
Rangirangdoo and Love Conquers All are both at $8 just ahead of dual Group One winner Secret Admirer at $9.
