Two track records in less than an hour.
When speedy filly Nicconi Leggera ran 58.32 seconds in winning Saturday’s Duporth Tavern Handicap she bettered Hidden Pearl’s previous mark for 1000m at Eagle Farm.
But 35 minutes later that time was lowered by Privlaka who became the first horse to break 58 seconds on the revamped track.
Privlaka clocked 57.95 seconds to win the Beach House Bar & Grill Handicap at his first run back from a spell.
Eagle Farm has been plagued by bad weather and rain-affected tracks since it reopened in June, nearly two years after being closed for a major upgrade of the course proper.
Trainers and jockeys are confident the track will continue to improve and consolidate each week as the days become hotter and weather pattern stabilises.
Privlaka’s trainer Robert Heathcote is content to take the gelding through his grades this campaign.
“I don’t think 1000 metres is his optimum distance and I was worried it might be a bit short for him today,” Heathcote said.
“That’s his third Saturday win which makes it easier for me to place him and he’s one of those horses I think can go on to bigger and better things.
“Ultimately I think he’ll be better suited when he steps up to 1200 metres and even a mile further down the track.”
Privlaka’s three previous wins were on rain-affected surfaces but Heathcote is adamant he is a superior horse on dry tracks.
The Magic Millions carnival will be trainer Chris Munce’s focus with Nicconi Leggera.
“I was amazed by the price she went up this morning considering she went just as good, if not a bit better, than Privlaka in a hitout during the week,” Munce said.
“My job now is to place her properly and find the right race for her on Magic Millions day.
“Later on at next year’s winter carnival I’ll look at some of the feature races for fillies and mares with her.”
