A win by Lady Gazerra in the Queen Of The Valley Matchmaker at Muswellbrook on Friday would prove a fitting salute for the late Jaime Mackay.
Lady Gazerra is owned and bred by Mackay’s wife, Jennifer Mackay.
He was a leading Australian polo player.
“It’s been a shattering couple of months for Jennifer,” trainer Darren Smith said.
“Jamie passed away just after Southern Girl won at Scone last month and it would be great if the mare can win for her.”
Lady Gazerra is one of three horses Mackay has with the Broadmeadow-based trainer.
A lightly raced six-year-old mare by Shamardal, Lady Gazerra has recorded three wins and seven placings from 14 starts.
The mare has been in sparkling form since returning from a long spell.
Lady Gazerra finished a half neck second to Tableaux over 1200m at Newcastle on June 1.
First-up from a 170-day spell the big mare was beaten a long neck and neck when third to Inside Job and Another Lovechild over 1100m at Warwick Farm on May 19.
“I’ve been very happy with the way she’s progressed,” Smith said. “She’s a lovely big strong mare now and relaxed.
“I think she’s a city-class racehorse and tomorrow will hopefully be a confidence booster for her.”
