Trainer Clayton Douglas was all smiles after Giga Kick’s strong performance in an 850-meter barrier trial at Randwick on Monday. The 2022 Everest winner finished second behind Golden Slipper champion Lady Of Camelot, marking a key step in his spring preparation.
Giga Kick showed early speed and settled well under jockey James McDonald, closing strongly to finish just 1.25 lengths behind Lady Of Camelot. “He began well from the machines, and James was really happy with the horse,” Douglas said, noting the sprinter’s progress as a “bigger, stronger version” this preparation.
McDonald, who rode Giga Kick for the first time in the trial, described him as “a bit ring rusty” but confident the horse will sharpen up. Giga Kick is set for another trial on August 30 before his first-up run in the Group 3 Concorde Stakes at Randwick on September 7.
Douglas is optimistic about Giga Kick’s spring campaign, with The Everest firmly in their sights.
1⃣ Lady Of Camelot
2⃣ Giga Kick
3⃣ LinebackerThe reigning Golden Slipper winner, with @ZacLloydx up, holds the 2022 #TABEverest champ (@mcacajamez) in an 850m Kensington trial on Monday. Celestial Legend and Democracy Manifest followed. @tabcomau pic.twitter.com/8XdKk6Yrmi
— Racing NSW (@racing_nsw) August 18, 2024
