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| Sumita Pawar |
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As the highly anticipated Stradbroke Handicap approaches, Think About It, the favored racehorse, will be sporting a synthetic hoof filler in one of his feet.
However, trainer Joe Pride assures that this is simply to make the farrier's job easier and will not affect the horse's impressive performance record of seven consecutive wins. Come race day at Eagle Farm, all eyes will be on Think About It as he strives for yet another victory.
Equine Care At Its Finest
"Rest assured, the equine is in impeccable condition with no histrionics in sight," Pride confirmed to Racenet during their Thursday morning exchange.
Anticipating the inquiry, Pride disclosed, "Given the lengthy period of training, the hoof's structure may have slightly diminished due to natural erosion. Thus, the farrier added a small extension to facilitate the insertion of nails."
This addition is present on both sides of the hoof, extending towards the right front.
Think About It Takes Group 1 By Storm
In a bid to maintain their agility, several horses resort to synthetic hoof filler during their training, particularly when their hooves become brittle towards the end of the preparation. One such example is Winx, who astounded the spectators by winning the 2017 Queen Elizabeth Stakes with a synthetic hoof filler and outshining her rivals with a remarkable lead of more than five lengths.
Stamping his authority in Group One company, Think About It emerged as the top contender for the Stradbroke Handicap after clinching the Kingsford Smith Cup in his debut race.
Pride, determined to claim his maiden Stradbroke Handicap title, hopes his horse Private Eye can overcome the unfortunate second-place finish to Alligator Blood last year.