It is all systems go for the Queensland Oaks favourite Gypsy Goddess on Saturday.
The David Vandyke trained daughter of Tarzino will be looking to make it third time lucky in a Group 1 contest and her previous results at the elite level … when third in the Vinery Stakes and second in the ATC Oaks, both in Sydney … certainly underline her highly regarded credentials going into first chase for Group 1 glory in her home state.
“She galloped nicely on Tuesday and I’m happy we have got her in good shape for Saturday,” said trainer David Vandyke.
“We have had our speedbumps along the way,” continued Vandyke.
“We went down to Sydney … and then we had the transferred meeting there. We raced on heavy 10’s.
“We were looking at The Roses as our lead-in race, but then we ended up in The Bracelet instead.
“We didn’t have a set plan in place. We have sort of been winging it a bit because of changing circumstances, but she is in good condition going into The Oaks on Saturday, so I’m happy.”
At one stage there was even some doubt as to whether Gypsy Goddess would race over the Queensland Winter Carnival, but she got the green light to go there and performed, as always, with real merit when finishing second to Dynasties in The Bracelet.
Gypsy Goddess has drawn very wide on Saturday and, while some may feel that the barrier draw is not of that much significance in a 2200m race, Vandyke has an opposite view on that subject.
“The draw plays a big part … especially when you are racing at Group 1 level,” said Vandyke.
“I’m not going to tell Willie (Pike) what to do from there. I’m going to let Willie do whatever he wants. He’ll just sum it up … the way she jumps … and just work it out from there.
“I think trying to tie him down to something from that barrier wouldn’t be wise on my part.
“It would be nice to have a plan in place. We have had the last three times Willie has ridden her, but his got to know her now and he’ll make the decisions on what to do as the race unfolds.”
Gypsy Goddess, who takes a record of five wins and three places from eight starts into the race, is currently quoted as the $4.20 for the Queensland Oaks, just marginally ahead of the Caroline Jennings trained Aravene at $4.60.
