John Thompson is probably more certain of Sydney Cup contender Tremec’s future than his own ahead of the final day of the Sydney autumn carnival.
In Tremec, Thompson is adamant he is sending “a top three chance” into battle in the $500,000 Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick on Saturday.
Tremec - Photo by Steve Hart
“A good stayer in the making … that’s how you’d class him,” Thompson said.
“I think he’s a top-three chance on Saturday but’s he going to be even better again next year. He’ll go all day.”
Whether Thompson is still training the four-year-old when he reaches full maturity depends on outcomes beyond his control.
As the trainer for Patinack Farm, Thompson faces the loss of his racing team next month when Nathan Tinkler’s horses go under the hammer because of ongoing financial woes.
The best result for Thompson would be a sale of Patinack Farm in its entirety and for him to retain his job as head trainer.
“The stable is still ticking over well and I’ll keep going until we’re not,” he said.
Tremec is an $8.50 Sydney Cup chance after winning his past two lead-up races, the most recent after a deft Craig Newitt ride in the Chairman’s Quality at Randwick two weeks ago.
Thompson is also hoping he can figure in another Group One race on Saturday – in Adelaide.
He will start Transonic in the $400,000 Australasian Oaks at Morphettville confident the filly will peak for the race.
“She ran up to win but knocked up last time,” Thompson said. “She’s been set for the race and she’s improved.”
