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| Staff Writer |
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Leading Golden Slipper contenders are preparing for a defining clash in Saturday's Gr.2 Silver Slipper at Rosehill, where Chris Waller's exciting prospect Wodeton faces a tough task from the outside barrier.
The champion trainer is maintaining his composure despite his colt drawing gate 11, directly outside fellow contender North England. "There's a lot of speed in the race," Waller said. "He is a pretty sensible horse and he's got enough speed to get himself out of trouble if he needs to."
Wodeton, who stamped his credentials with a commanding debut victory last month, has been meticulously prepared for this assignment. Following his eye-catching performance, the talented juvenile enjoyed a week's respite at his owners' Coolmore property before completing a controlled barrier trial.
"He had a week back at Coolmore then steady work to the trial, keeping him fresh at the same time as making sure he's not getting away from us," Waller explained. "He has always shown us talent from day one. We thought he would be hard to beat first-up but not win in the manner that he did."
The 1100m contest is shaping as a pivotal stepping stone towards the Gr.1 Golden Slipper, featuring an impressive lineup including Bel Merci, winner of the Gimcrack Stakes, and Golden Gift runner-up West Of Swindon.
Waller is relishing the prospect of Sydney's autumn carnival intensifying. "There is some big racing coming up in the next few weeks. Last Saturday we got a taste of it and the next few weeks is fireworks," he said.
The presence of these promising youngsters ensures Saturday's Silver Slipper will provide crucial insights into the Golden Slipper picture, with the winner likely to emerge as a leading contender for the prestigious juvenile feature.