Buffering on target for Dubai race
Star sprinter Buffering is just a couple of kilograms under his normal racing weight but is enjoying a trouble-free lead-up to the Al Quoz Sprint.
A six-time Group One winner, Buffering will be trying to emulate the 2012 feat of Australian sprinter Ortensia by winning the 1000m straight dash at Meydan on Saturday night (Sunday AEDT).
Trainer Robert Heathcote and strapper Mel Sharpe have been Buffering’s constant companions since the gelding arrived in Dubai last week.
“He is 508 kilograms which is two under his normal racing weight,” Heathcote told AAP.
“He is eating and drinking well and he looks super. I think he is ready to go at the weekend,” Heathcote said.
“Buffering was pretty well spot-on when we left Australia but the trip took a little bit out of him which was to be expected.
“But he is bright and seems to have recovered well.”
Buffering had a breeze-up on the course proper on Saturday and worked over 1000m on Tuesday.
“It was mainly to give him a look at the track and the big grandstand,” Heathcote said.
“He was keen, worked enthusiastically and pulled up well. The going was probably a little on the soft side but it should be ideal for Saturday.”
“He’s definitely where we want him to be at this stage.”
Hong Kong’s Peniaphobia and Notlistenin’tome are among Buffering’s opposition but Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint winner Mongolian Saturday has been scratched after suffering travel sickness.
Buffering’s jockey Damian Browne left Australia for Dubai on Wednesday and most of the owners will fly out in the next two days.