Walker gives Imperatriz green light ahead of Flemington Group 1
Imperatriz, a proven performer at the highest level, showcased her readiness for the upcoming autumn campaign during a brisk track gallop at Moonee Valley on Monday morning, according to co-trainer Mark Walker.
Accompanied by stablemate Sans Doute, the duo covered 800 metres in 51.72 seconds, with their final 400 metres completed in 23.94 seconds.
Walker commented on the purpose behind pushing Imperatriz out of her comfort zone, stating, “Get her out of her comfort zone a little bit … horses at their home tracks are a bit laidback sometimes, especially as they get a bit older.”
Regarding the upcoming Black Caviar Lightning (1000m), Walker expressed confidence, emphasizing the distinction between trials and race day: “Trials are different to race day and we’re looking forward to Saturday.”
Drawing inspiration from recent performances, Walker alluded to Mr Brightside’s CF Orr Stakes success despite underwhelming jump-outs, stating, “There was a lot of talk on the weekend that Mr Brightside’s jump-outs weren’t that great, and look what he did.”
Assuring Imperatriz’s preparedness for Saturday’s challenge, Walker highlighted the meticulous monitoring of top-tier horses: “These good horses have checks and balances every week and there’s nothing that’s been out of place.”
In terms of physical readiness, Walker noted, “She’ll be virtually the identical weight Saturday to what she won first-up in the spring.”
Concluding with a nod to Imperatriz’s form and the competitive nature of Group 1 races, Walker remarked, “We think she’s pretty ready … they don’t give Group 1s away so you have to have them pretty ready.”
Imperatriz is currently a -125 favourite for Saturday’s Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning at Flemington with top horse racing betting sites.