Bridget Jones’s diary entry for Saturday August 20 might read: “Randwick – don’t get lost.”
The Dubbo trainer is bringing Iona Nicconi to the big smoke for the Highway Plate (1600m).
The last time Jones last made the seven-hour journey to Sydney she ended up stuck in the middle of the city after a satellite navigation mishap.
“I haven’t done it for a few years so I’m probably going to get lost again,” Jones said.
Despite navigational bumps in the road Jones has had some city racing success, most notably with Murray’s Sun who finished third in the 2009 Group Three Tramway Handicap won by future Group One winner Rangirangdoo.
She hasn’t had another racehorse worth bringing to Sydney until now.
Iona Nicconi, daughter of Group One winner Nicconi, is in with a good chance.
“If she’s up to form and travels OK she should be right up there,” Jones said.
She will carry 53.5kg with apprentice Taylor Marshall’s claim and will wear blinkers.
“They have made her focus and concentrate a bit more because she was always lacking early speed, she wouldn’t get quickly into stride,” Jones said.
Jones says the step up to 1600m will suit the big striding mare.
Depending on how she pulls up, Iona Nicconi could be heading out for a spell after Saturday’s race.
“I’d like to bring her back out here and give her one more easier start, then she will be going for a holiday,” Jones said.
