 |
|
| Sumita Pawar |
 |
Star jockey James McDonald believes that Fangirl, a talented mare, is on par with any other horse in the country. McDonald is preparing to compete in his third Gr.1 Winx Stakes (1400m) at Royal Randwick on Saturday.
In the past, McDonald's has been victorious in two of the last three editions of the prestigious A$1 million race. Last year, he rode Anamoe, a Godolphin superstar, to victory while Fangirl finished as the runner-up.
However, with Anamoe now retired, McDonald will be riding Fangirl this year. Fangirl is among the many horses trained by Chris Waller that will participate in the first Group One race of the new season.
"She ran second in the race last year to a superstar and I think being a five-year-old mare now, this is her time to shine," McDonald said.
"She is as good as any horse in the country at the moment.
"I thought her trials have been really sharp, she is working really well and I am looking forward to getting on her next week."
McDonald Returns With Fangirl: A Promising Pair For Spring
McDonald, who recently won the Rosebud on Tiz Invincible, was back again chasing another feature win. This time, he partnered with Fangirl in an exhibition gallop at Rosehill on Saturday, alongside stablemate Lazzago.
Although Lazzago slightly edged out Fangirl in the hit out, trainer Chris Waller was pleased with their work. He believes that both horses are ready for a successful spring campaign.
"She likes good tracks which is the key to her this spring," he added.
Waller specifically thinks that Fangirl will excel on the drier tracks this season. Despite not winning since the Gr.1 Vinery Stud Stakes in March 2022, Fangirl has been performing well at the highest level. She has finished second three times in Group One races, always coming in behind Anamoe. Additionally, she was a runner-up in last year's Golden Eagle, losing to I Wish I Win.
In preparation for the upcoming race named after his former superstar, Waller has assembled an impressive group of jockeys. Hugh Bowman and Brenton Avdulla, both based in Hong Kong, will ride Lindermann and Osipenko, respectively.
Other contenders for the feature include Francesco Guardi (ridden by Jay Ford), Going Global (to be determined), Hinged (ridden by Kerrin McEvoy), Montefilia (ridden by Dylan Gibbons), and Princess Grace (ridden by Brett Prebble).
Kerry Parker's 2022 Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner, Think It Over, is making a comeback after more than a year. He is considered a strong contender and is currently the second favorite at $6, alongside Zaaki, with Mo'unga following closely at $7.
Michael Freedman has confirmed that Randwick Guineas winner Communist will be participating in the race, with odds set at $15.