The Follow Files: Waller filly impresses in maiden Group 3 test
Day one of The Championships at Randwick took the spotlight last Saturday, while Caulfield hosted a strong support program. In this week’s edition of The Follow Files, we have found three runners that are worth following after solid performances. Add these horses to your blackbook with your chosen bookmaker and you will get notifications before they run.
Randwick
Rail position: True entire circuit
Race 4: Group 3 Adrian Knox Stakes (2000m) | Time: 2:05.82
- Horse to follow: Concello (3rd)
Outside of Good Banter and Autumn Angel, the Chris Waller-trained Concello produced one of the best finishing bursts in the Group 3 Adrian Knox Stakes as she worked home nicely from the back of the field. After turning into the home straight on the back of the eventual winner, she couldn’t stick with her; however, Concello found another gear late and ran through the line strongly to nab third place. The daughter of Trapeze Artist passed the test at her first attempt at Group 3 level and at 2000m, and it looks as though a rise in trip could suit her.
When to bet: Given that Waller hasn’t chosen to back up Concello in the Australian Oaks on Saturday, she might have a small break before heading towards the Queensland Oaks in June.
Race 10: Group 3 PJ Bell Stakes (1200m) | Time: 1:12.24
- Horse to follow: Infancy (2nd)
Infancy produced one of the best finishing bursts at Randwick last Saturday, flying home from midfield and nearly nabbing Facile in the shadows of the winning post. After claiming the Listed Fireball Stakes over 1100m last start, the Kris Lees-trained filly earned a crack at Group company — and she didn’t disappoint. It was a strong performance, and a rise in trip next start will be ideal.
When to bet: As a three-year-old filly, the next step will be the Group 3 James H B Carr Stakes over 1400m at Randwick on April 20, where Infancy will compete against her own age and sex once again.
Caulfield
Rail position: True entire circuit
Race 5: Benchmark 70 Handicap (1400m) | Time: 1:24.96
- Horse to follow: Jabbawockeez (2nd)
Jabbawockeez was one of the runners that caught the eye during the Caulfield program. The Ben, Will & JD Hayes-trained galloper took the shortcut along the inside rail and shared second place with Russian Meteor behind Jucconi. This son of Redwood has put in two solid runs this preparation over 1300m and 1400m, but both of his career wins have come at 1600m, which should be the distance he competes at third-up.
When to bet: If the Hayes team can find a 1600m race in Benchmark 70 grade, Jabbawockeez should go very close to winning his next start.