It’sarayday will make his feature race debut at Ascot on Saturday and trainer Simon Miller hopes his high opinion of the three-year-old will be justified in the Breast Cancer Research Centre Of WA-Listed Belgravia Stakes (1200m).
Undefeated at his only two starts, Miller is upbeat and positive about It’Sarayday’s potential after he was picked up for $80,000 at the Inglis Classic yearling sale, his ownership group includes star cricketers Shaun and Mitchell Marsh.
It’sarayday made his debut at Belmont in July and validated $3.70 favouritism to win by 1 ¾ lengths.
Following a break, he raced at Northam and after bombing the start by a couple of lengths and striking the inside running rail in the straight, he exploded clear to win by 2 ¾ lengths.
Miller saddles up two hot chances with stable mate Liwa to join It’sarayday in the Belgravia Stakes, a race he won twice previously with Caipirinha (2017) and Miss Solis (2013).
Miller says It’sarayday, a son of Winning Rupert, is a raw and exciting three-year-old with a heap of upside.
“Gees, he’s an exciting commodity,” Miller told Tabradio.
“He could be anything and I’ve never bottomed him out.
“Every time you work him a bit harder, he thrives off it.
“I don’t know how big his engine is, but he sits at the pointy end of the plane.”
It’sarayday has drawn barrier eight and has tightened from $6 into $4.40 with Tabtouch.
Pat Carbery takes the mount after he steered Liwa to a barnstorming win in the Crown Perth 3YO Classic (1000m) a fortnight back.
In a field of 15 starters, Liwa steps away from the widest gate.
Clint Johnston-Porter has the mount.
Liwa, a Listed winner of the Supremacy Stakes (1000m) and placed in the Karrakatta Plate (1200m) and Sires’ (1400m), is a $9 hope in current markets.
“I felt sorry for Patty (Carbery) who had to make a choice and he went with whoever drew better,” Miller said.
“She’s come back good and raised the bar from last prep.
“It was an exceptional win the other day, albeit they rocked along and set it up for her.
“She crunched into another gear and her last furlong was ridiculously quick.
“I think CJP (Clint Johnston-Porter) will suit her; nice and quiet and blend in when required.
“Her work on Tuesday was exceptional.”
Miller believes race tempo and luck in running will determine the Belgravia Stakes winner, but when pressed said he rates It’sarayday as his best bet over the weekend.
