Winx is heavier than this time last year but the world's best horse on turf is as good as ever
Winx is heavier than this time last year but her showing in a Randwick barrier trial win has Chris Waller confident the world’s best horse on turf is as good as ever.
The mare’s second trial of her spring preparation on Tuesday ended in her first career barrier trial win after she was ridden just off the speed to the turn.
“All we wanted a nice easy trial but at same time to make sure the last 200 metres was her best,” Waller said.
“Don’t read too much into that (win) – race day is more important.”
Waller says the attitude of the mare, who is unbeaten in her past 17 starts including two Cox Plates, is identical to previous campaigns.
She is showing no signs of weariness or a drop in enthusiasm for racing.
But she is slightly bulkier than usual.
“Fitness-wise it’s hard to say (but) I’d say, after this morning’s trial, she’s where she normally would be returning,” Waller said.
Jockey Hugh Bowman was also pleased with her progress ahead of her first run in the Group Two Warwick Stakes on August 19.
“He was very happy and said she was on her toes. She’s ready to go in two weeks time,” Waller said.
Winx is aiming to become the only horse besides Kingston Town to win three Cox Plates, Australasia’s weight-for-age championship.
Her stable expects the Warwick Stakes to be followed by two or three races before the Moonee Valley showpiece on October 28.
A spring finale at Flemington for the Emirates Stakes has not been ruled out.
