It has been a case of trial and error but Michael Freedman believes he is beginning to work out what makes import Givemethebeatboys tick and he is hoping the proof will be in the pudding at Scone.
Group 1 placed in Ireland, Givemethebeatboys turned in his best effort in three Australian starts when third to Mazu in the Hall Mark Stakes (1200m) at Randwick last month.
It followed a solid debut in the Expressway Stakes (1200m) when he finished less than two lengths from winner Magic Time before a disappointing unplaced performance in the Challenge Stakes (1000m) won by Jedibeel.
Freedman felt he contributed to the latter by making a gear change but said the horse was also unsuited by firm tracks at his first two local runs.
“His first start in Australia was very good. He only got beaten a couple of lengths by some very good horses,” Freedman said.
“I probably erred in taking the headgear off him second-up but he didn’t really stretch out on a firm deck.
“That touch of softness in the track last start was more to his liking and I was really happy with it.
“Like a lot of these horses that come out from Europe, they enjoy getting their toe in a bit.”
Givemethebeatboys hasn’t raced since April 19 but has been kept up to the mark with a barrier trial.
He is among a field of 16 for Saturday’s Listed Luskin Star Stakes (1300m) at Scone where he has drawn barrier 10 and Freedman says he has freshened up well.
“He put in a good performance and he has come on from it. Rather than just stopping and putting him out, I thought it was worth pressing on for one more,” Freedman said.
“I think he will enjoy stepping up that touch longer in distance.”
Givemethebeatboys will again wear visors, as he did in the Hall Mark Stakes last start.
