Crocetti, the Group 1-winning sprinter from New Zealand, is shaping up well ahead of his highly anticipated run in the $5 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot Racecourse this Saturday.
Co-trainer Danny Walker expressed confidence in the horse’s preparation and adaptability since arriving in Perth two weeks ago. “He’s an unflappable sort of horse,” Walker said. “He’s really settled in well. He took everything in his stride, and that’s exactly what you want coming into a big race like this.”
Crocetti will race under the Trackside NZ and Perth Racing slot and has drawn barrier seven. Walker views the draw positively, saying, “I’m happy with it. It gives us some options depending on how the race shapes up early.”
In a key lead-up to the event, Crocetti took part in the “Breakfast with the Stars” session earlier this week. According to Walker, the workout went smoothly. “It was a good hit-out for him. He had a nice sweat in the muggy conditions, and it brought him on nicely.”
The Quokka field is stacked with talent, including last year’s winner Overpass, trained by Bjorn Baker, who is aiming for a third consecutive victory in the race. Overpass currently leads the betting at $2.15, with Headwall at $6.50 and Crocetti listed as a $27 chance with TAB bookmakers.
