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| Staff Writer |
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Excitement fills the air as young sensation Pericles gears up to face a crucial spring test at Randwick. With the retirement of the illustrious Anamoe, renowned racing stable Godolphin is in search of its next weight-for-age champion, and all hopes are pinned on the talented Pericles.
Under the careful guidance of trainer James Cummings, this gelding has been nurtured and shaped for success. Following the traditional path of a 3YO, Pericles showcased his potential during the autumn season. His notable accomplishments include a Group Two victory in Melbourne and a close second-place finish to Lindermann in the prestigious Group One Rosehill Guineas.
Now, after returning triumphantly with two consecutive wins over 1400 meters, Pericles is ready to take on the challenge of weight-for-age company. This Saturday, he will face a formidable lineup of established performers such as Zaaki, Think It Over, and Fangirl in the highly anticipated 7 Stakes over 1600 meters at Randwick.
Anticipation builds as racing enthusiasts eagerly await Pericles' next move. Will he rise to the occasion and fill the void left by Anamoe? Only time will tell, but all eyes will be on this promising young gun as he takes on the ultimate test of his abilities.
“We’ve had a pretty good start to the season and the team is doing an excellent job as we do our best to fill the big gap left behind by the retirement of Anamoe to stud,” Cummings said.
“The pressure has been on Pericles because in many ways he has needed to be our next weight-for-age horse and essentially, that’s what we’re asking him to do this campaign.”
Dilemmas & Desires: Cummings Ponders The Perfect Race For Pericles
Pericles is known for his exceptional ability to maintain a fast pace during races. As a result, he can either take the lead or closely follow Zaaki, depending on the strategy chosen by apprentice Zac Lloyd. The advantage of Pericles having a wide draw is that it grants Zac Lloyd the opportunity to determine and control the tactics employed during the race.
“I actually like the map, I don’t mind the barrier at all,” Cummings said.
“The query remains whether I want to test the horse at weight-for-age just yet this weekend, coming through a set weights and penalties race where he was nicely in and a handicap before that.
“I could just keep him ticking along for the Epsom without pushing him in this race just yet.
“(But) it’s the type of race where Pericles can run very well. He can roll up there and put himself in the race and he can be fighting on strongly when the pressure begins to build.”
In this race, she aims to highlight her exceptional abilities and establish herself as Godolphin's top contender for a coveted slot in the Everest race.
“It’s a terrific Shorts, as they have evolved to be now as lead-ups to the premier sprint, and she’s well and truly burning along beautifully to be a competitive chance,” Cummings said.
“But make no mistake, we’re going to do our best to have her absolutely spot-on next month.”