It was a case of mission accomplished for Godolphin head trainer James Cummings when emerging mare Tailleur posted a breakthrough black-type win at Randwick.
The four-year-old has been patiently managed and made it six wins from eight starts when she staved off the challenge of Tricky Gal to win the Group Three Triscay Stakes (1200m) by a long neck.
However, Saturday’s victory was significant as it was her first at black-type level.
“She’s got the black-type win on the board so we can plot a path now with a little bit less pressure on our backs,” Cummings said.
“She is clearly very talented and an exciting mare and I’d like to think it won’t be her last win.”
Cummings will let the dust settle before deciding his next move but he hasn’t ruled out stepping Tailleur up to a Group One sprint during the carnival.
The mare has superior form on wet ground and Sydney invariably produces rain-affected tracks during the Easter racing period.
“She could be kept fresh for a really good race like The Galaxy or we could just plot our path through the mares races in the next few weeks,” Cummings said.
“But there is something to be said for her down in the weights in a Galaxy and it would be pretty interesting if we did get a wet track.”
Cummings was also on hand to oversee an exhibition gallop between Avilius and the promising Criaderas.
He said both were tracking well and likely to trial again before kicking off their respective campaigns.
“They pulled up beautifully. It was a good stretch of their legs,” Cummings said.
“I will probably afford them another barrier trial but it’s good to get them back to the races and blow out the cobwebs.”