The possibility of a wash out at the Gold Coast has been a driver in Tony Gollan’s decision to bring wet track specialist Tambo’s Mate to Sydney, but it isn’t the only factor.
The in-form sprinter is among acceptances for both the Recognition Stakes (1400m) and the Starlight Stakes (1100m) at Rosehill, but Gollan has confirmed he will head south for his first start outside Queensland.
The Gold Coast track was rated a heavy 10 on Thursday and Rosehill a heavy eight with more rain forecast for both venues.
“He loves wet tracks and either way we would get one, but I think Sydney is a better chance of racing and if the Gold Coast is abandoned, I’d be filthy,” Gollan said.
“I also think the distance suits him better in Sydney. He is in good shape and he’s a good wet tracker. He is drawn low down there, so he gets his chance.”
Tambo’s Mate is undefeated on rain-affected tracks and has been racing in great heart to post wins at his past two starts, the latest in the Listed Keith Noud Quality (1200m) at Doomben.
Gollan has only had the horse since the start of the spring but says he looks the best he has all preparation and the icing on the cake has been the booking of leading jockey James Mcdonald.
“I am learning with the horse and this is probably the happiest I have been with him given what I know about him now,” Gollan said.
“The only query is travelling away for the first time. He has never been out of the state.
“But he is a pretty durable gelding, he is a really good eater, and I can’t see it being a problem for him. It will give him plenty to look at and think about.”
Tambo’s Mate is being kept safe in early markets at $4.60 with Snapdancer a $3.90 favourite.
The gelding will return home after Saturday’s assignment, but all being well, Gollan hasn’t ruled out another Sydney bid during the summer.
“We will bring him back Sunday night with an option to back up in the George Moore (Stakes) next week up here if it was to remain wet,” he said.
“If not, we will look at the Razor Sharp down there in a fortnight.”
