Mystyko makes it a hat-trick at Caulfield
Connections are considering tackling the Newmarket Handicap with sprinter-on-the-move Mystyko.
Connections of Mystyko are considering tackling the Newmarket Handicap after the sprinter completed a winning hat-trick at Caulfield.
Mystyko is among nominations for the $1.25 million sprint over the straight 1200m at Flemington on March 9.
Victory in the Veuve Clicquot Lawn Handicap followed wins at Caulfield and Sandown in benchmark 64 grade and gave 3kg claiming apprentice Chelsea Hall with her first Saturday success.
Sent off the $3.70 favourite, Mystyko scored a length win over Redcore ($8) with I Got You ($10) a half-head away third.
Mystyko has made a rapid rise through the ranks with breeder and part-owner Richard Anderson saying the gelding is still 12 months away from reaching full potential.
As a confidence-booster 12 months ago, Mystyko was dispatched to the picnic circuit, registering two wins with a later victory at Pakenham before a spell.
In five runs since he’s registered three wins and two second placings for trainer Trevor Rogers.
“Trevor’s done an amazing job with his planning and strategies in him giving him six months off,” Anderson said.
“We still think he’s 12 months away and full credit must go to Chelsea for her ride.
“We think he’s got Group One potential at some point, but he’s still 12 months away from being at his top.”
Anderson said Mystyko will require another start before the Newmarket Handicap.
“Trevor mentioned the Oakleigh Plate but I would prefer to go a benchmark 90 and use Chelsea’s claim again and give him a bit more confidence,” Anderson said.
“He likes it here at Caulfield, but he’s never had a run up the straight at Flemington so that is another consideration.”