Rich Fortune out to cause Group 1 upset
Rich Fortune is gearing up to face off against some of Australia’s top sprinters, as trainer Jerome Hunter has given the green light for his 84-rated mare to tackle Saturday’s Black Caviar Lightning (1000m).
Despite not securing a victory since her triumph in the Group 3 Kevin Hayes Stakes (1100m) a year ago, the allure of a small field has enticed Hunter to pit his four-year-old against formidable rivals like Imperatriz, Bella Nipotina, and Private Eye.
In an interview with Racing.com, Hunter conveyed his rationale, stating, “You can’t win the raffle without a ticket.”
“We are fit, and I wouldn’t say a lot of those horses are 1000-metre specialists and are looking for a bit further, and if there is lots of speed on, it would definitely suit my horse.”
Recalling insights from jockey Craig Williams, who rode Rich Fortune in the Kensington Stakes, Hunter shared, “Craig Williams said when he rode her in the Kensington Stakes she was very keen and he said, ‘You really need a very fast run race for her to settle and run on.’ I guess you couldn’t pick any faster race than the Lightning.”
“We’ll be the rank outsider no doubt. Hopefully, they are having a bad day and we are having a good day.”
This candid assessment underscores the determination and optimism driving Hunter and Rich Fortune as they prepare to tackle the Lightning and aim for a triumphant performance amidst tough competition.