Michael Freedman is banking on Ninja’s ability to put himself on the speed as a key ingredient to his chances in the Group One Randwick Guineas.
While two of his main rivals, Autumn Boy and Attica, usually settle back in the field, Ninja proved his versatility in the Hobartville Stakes (1400m) when he camped on the back of the leader and sprinted quickly for a dominant win.
While Saturday will be his first time over a mile, he is out of a So You Think mare and Freedman can see no reason not to test the waters to see if the three-year-old can stretch his brilliance.
“He has never been tried at it, and there is only one way to find out,” Freedman said.
“His racing style, where he can sit handy if needs be, that’s a big advantage.
“I’ve got no more insight into whether he’ll run it out or not, but he will certainly run well.
“He’s been very full of himself and right on his feed, so I’m happy to press on.”
Ninja will be joined in the race by emerging stablemate Decorum, who has posted successive midweek wins at Warwick Farm to earn his spot.
Freedman expects Decorum to find some of the leading market chances too sharp on Saturday, but hopes it can provide a launch pad towards some middle distance features over the carnival.
Both the Rosehill Guineas (2000m) and Tulloch Stakes (2000m) will be considered for Decorum, while he also holds a nomination for the ATC Australian Derby (2400m).
“It’s a stepping stone perhaps to something else over a bit further for him, but it gives us a look at him against some of the better quality horses,” Freedman said.
Victorian Sheza Alibi has been backed into $2.50 favouritism for the Randwick Guineas, displacing Autumn Boy ($2.90) as the top pick, while Ninja is on the third line of betting as a $5.50 chance, with Decorum at $10.
Sheza Alibi will be aiming to become the first filly to win the race since Mosheen in 2012.
