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| Staff Writer |
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Rob Heathcote is well aware that he's taking a risk by pitting his horse, Rothfire, against the formidable Giga Kick in the upcoming McEwen Stakes at Moonee Valley. However, Heathcote believes that if there's ever a time to challenge the reigning Everest champion, it's now.
As a Group One -winning trainer, Heathcote understands the prowess of Giga Kick and acknowledges that the Gr.2 McEwen Stakes is likely to be dominated by him if he performs at his best. Nevertheless, Heathcote has witnessed numerous talented horses falter at Moonee Valley, and he hopes that Rothfire can exploit any vulnerabilities that Giga Kick may have.
Despite enduring a career plagued by injuries, Heathcote firmly believes that Rothfire is currently in the best form of his racing life. Having finished as the runner-up in the prestigious Stradbroke Handicap, Rothfire has showcased his adaptability and versatility, which Heathcote believes will work in his favor on Saturday.
With confidence in his horse and a recognition of the challenge ahead, Rob Heathcote is poised to take on Giga Kick in the McEwen Stakes. Only time will tell if this bold move will pay off and propel Rothfire to victory at Moonee Valley.
"He is the defending champ (of the McEwen) at the end of the day," he said.
"The positives are that he is in great order, he has carried a lot of residual fitness in and his trial was outstanding last Tuesday, which he pulled up in great order from.
"It is well documented that we have had issues with his leg in the past, but I can confidently say we have him the best we have ever had him.
"Coming off a successful spring last year, another successful winter carnival this year, we are going into the race as well as he could be.
"We have the services of the Scobie Breasley Medal winner (Blake Shinn)."
Clash Of The Titans: Rothfire vs. Zoustyle
In an eagerly anticipated A$300,000 contest, Rothfire, along with several other Group One winners, will compete against fellow Queenslander Zoustyle. This highly anticipated clash brings back memories of the thrilling all-Queensland quinella from last year, where Zoustyle secured a commendable second place. With such a strong field of contenders, this hot edition promises to be a captivating showdown that horse racing enthusiasts won't want to miss.
"Admittedly there is Giga Kick in there, he will be hard to beat, Zoustyle, who I have enormous respect for and Imperatriz, you only need to look at her record to see she is a dominant Kiwi sprinter.
"It's going to be a hell of a race and it will set up a great Moir Stakes in three weeks time.
"Giga Kick is probably the number one sprinter in the country at the moment, he is favourite for The Everest for a reason.
"But it is Moonee Valley, where barriers and race circumstances place a big role, he could draw one and be four pairs back on the fence — it's goodbye from there and he can't win.
"We still have to get there, but he is a seasoned traveller and (Rothfire's) not going there just to make up the numbers."