Will Freedman isn’t expecting On The Lead to turn the tables on up-and-coming mare I Am Me when the pair clash again at Randwick, but a significant difference in the handicaps has at least piqued his interest.
On The Lead was beaten less than two lengths when runner-up to I Am Me over 1100m at Rosehill two weeks ago.
They will again go head-to-head in Saturday’s ATC Tree Planting For Queen’s Jubilee Handicap (1200m) when On The Lead will have the benefit of a four-kilo turnaround in the weights.
Freedman admits that may not be enough to stop the Ciaron Maher and David Eustace -trained mare bringing up a hat-trick, but if there are any chinks in her armour, On The Lead is just the type of seasoned campaigner who can pounce.
“I don’t think I Am Me is vulnerable by any means, but it will bring her slightly back to the field and she will have to put in her best effort,” Freedman said.
“He is an old journeyman now so he will give the same sort of effort every start.
“He was $15 last start and ran second sitting three-wide without cover. He draws a better gate (barrier six), gets a weight turnaround and he seems to be getting longer in the odds.”
Tim Clark partnered On The Lead last start and sticks with him on Saturday.
The gelding has been specked from $16 into $13, while I Am Me has firmed into odds-on after opening at even-money.
Freedman also confirmed Magic Millions hopeful Fashion Legend would be scratched from the sixth race at Randwick in favour of a 1400-metre event at Eagle Farm where the stable believed he would run boldly.
“There are a few hurdles for him to get over, but he’s an improving horse,” Freedman said.
“His worst result is running fourth so he’s pretty consistent and he keeps stepping up when we take him to the next level. I think he’ll run a big race up there.
“He was the first horse I bought with (owner) Bon Ho. It would be nice to win a nice Saturday race with him and then see him progress onwards.”
