The Melbourne Spring Carnival is still months away, but trainer Clinton Mcdonald has already identified a race he would like to tackle with an up-and-coming filly.
Ahha Ahha will take another step towards a possible late spring goal when she runs in the Darren Galley Mile (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday.
The Group 3 Summoned Stakes (1600m) at Caulfield in November is the long-range goal for Ahha Ahha who is likely to put be put away for a break after Saturday’s contest.
Ahha Ahha has won two of her nine starts to date, and McDonald explained the filly is only now realising what racing is about.
The three-year-old broke her maiden status at Cranbourne in April and three starts later, her most recent at Sandown on May 24, saw her successful over Terrilee.
That race set up well for Ahha Ahha who appreciated the solid tempo.
“The only time she has got it right in her races was when she won at Cranbourne, although she still did a little wrong, and the other day with Jamie (Melham) on,” McDonald said.
“She was able to do it smoothly and didn’t lose her action or drop the bit, and as soon as she gave her one around the backside, she really let rip.
“I think she likes a fast tempo, and the figures will tell you that.
“She’s a good filly and the penny is starting to drop, but I think this will be her last run and then I’ll put her away.
“I’ll bring her back and look to the spring, with something like the Summoned Stakes at the backend of the Carnival a suitable target.
“I reckon that race at the end of the spring, it’s a forgotten race, so we can give her a break and set her for that.”
After Jamie Melham had the ride last start, 3kg claiming apprentice Dakotah Keane has the ride on Saturday.
