John Thompson has held Song And A Prayer back until now but believes she is ready to make her debut at Randwick.
The Randwick trainer will saddle the filly in Monday’s 3YO Maiden Plate over 1400m, a distance he says is a good starting point.
“She probably needs to get out to a mile or 2000. She’s a solid filly, I like her a lot,” Thompson said.
Song And A Prayer had her first barrier trial in May and it became apparent she needed more time.
“It’s taken a while. She’s just big, gangly and new,” Thompson said.
“I haven’t rushed her and fortunately there’s a set of owners that let me put her out and bring her into the carnival. Hopefully she measures up.”
Owned by Canning Downs Stud, Thompson hopes Song And A Prayer will continue a successful association with the operation based in Warwick, Queensland.
Thompson trained Tennessee Tango and Concisely to wins this year for Canning Downs and was pleased to take on Song And A Prayer.
“She’s got a touch of class. Her work’s good and 1400 on her home track will be enough distance.”
Song And A Prayer is not eligible for the Magic Millions carnival on January 13 but Thompson hopes to have one runner at the Gold Coast meeting.
He said three-year-old The Man could be a a contender for the Magic Millions Maiden (1200m).
