Leading trainer Adam Durrant is confident speed mare This’ll Testya can make a winning return in tomorrow’s Amelia Park Handicap (1000m) at Belmont Park.
The daughter of Testa Rossa showed she hadn’t lost any of her customary dash in a 950m trial at Belmont on Monday, scoring by more than three lengths.
Durrant said he had some reservations about This’Ll Testya backing-up into a race off a five-day turnaround but was confident he had her in good enough condition.
“The trial was as good as a horse could possibly trial,” he told TABradio.
“I really don’t like trialling them on a Monday and then backing them up on the Saturday.
“I think if you’re coming off a long break it’s detrimental to them because it’s their first real solid hit-out in that preparation building towards the races.
“In her case she didn’t have a long time off and we put plenty of leg work into her.”
The six-year-old burst on to the scene in 2019, scoring comprehensive wins at her first two starts.
In nine subsequent starts she has recorded one win and four placings.
Durrant said while This’ll Testya was below her best in four runs at Ascot and Belmont earlier this year, she was beaten by some progressive sprinters.
“Probably the horses that beat her, they’re leading contenders for the Winterbottom,” he said.
“Her form was good without winning.
“My gut tells me she wasn’t going as good as I think she can go.
“I think she’s the best I’ve had her.
“You’ll see tomorrow you won’t want to be on anything else in the mounting yard. She looks fantastic.”
This’ll Testya is a $2.25 favourite with TABtouch, ahead of last start winner Policiere ($2.35).
Durrant will be out to start tomorrow’s meeting on a high when he saddles up Harmika in the Glenroy Chaff Plate (1200m).
The filly was narrowly beaten by Policiere first-up over 1000m on August 28
“She’s worked well since that last run,” he said.
“There was plenty of merit in the effort.
“I think she’s in a good space and got a good barrier so she will be right in the mix.”
Harmika, to be ridden by Clint Johnston-Porter, is a $2.10 favourite with TABtouch.
