Bigger targets await promising filly Agarwood after she kept her unbeaten record intact at Randwick, but whether they come this campaign or next remains up for discussion.
Having posted a 1000m midweek win at Warwick Farm earlier this month, the youngster made a seamless transition to Saturday grade with an all-the-way win in Saturday’s Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation Handicap (1200m) under Adam Hyeronimus.
Agarwood holds a nomination for the J J Atkins (1600m) at Eagle Farm next month but Tulloch Lodge stable representative Neil Paine doubted she would be extended to a mile this preparation.
The Oxlade Stakes (1200m) on the Atkins undercard would be a more realistic target, although Agarwood could also be spelled in preparation for the spring.
“We will see how she pulls up,” Paine said.
“When they have a run on a heavy track it is always a worry.
“It was a very easy watch. Adam controlled it in front and the track raced beautifully. She’s a terrific filly.
“This was only her second run, we know she handles wet tracks so she ticked that box and was drawing away on the line.”
Paine said Agarwood was only a light filly and “would not be 500 kilos”, suggesting she will be better again as she continues to develop into her three-year-old season.
“She was tiny. We have had her in a number of times just trying to strengthen her up so that is why she was late starting (her career),” he said.
“Once our horses have a couple of runs and go out for a spell they come back bigger and better.”
Agarwood ($1.95 fav) scored by 2-1/4 lengths over Matima ($10), who was handy to the speed throughout, with debutant Providence ($31) making ground to finish another half-head away third, just in front of his Chris Waller-trained stablemate Regulated Affair ($8)
Waller’s assistant trainer Charlie Duckworth confirmed both colts were candidates for a Queensland campaign with Providence set to have his next start in The Phoenix (1500m) at Eagle Farm on Oaks Day ahead of a potential tilt at the J J Atkins (1600m).
“He was aimed for The Phoenix and if we end up being better, then perfect,” Duckworth said.
Regulated Affair also holds an entry for the Group 1 JJ Atkins at Eagle Farm on June 14.
