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| Staff Writer |
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Nature Strip, a Group One winner and the 2021 The Everest champion, has triumphed in many larger races than the Gr.3 Concorde Stakes that will take place on Saturday. However, his performance in the upcoming A$1 million race at Randwick is crucial for his career.
Trainer Chris Waller hopes to see that Nature Strip still enjoys racing in the 1000-metre event. Waller has been pleased with the horse's performance in the trials, but the outcome of Saturday's race will ultimately determine whether Nature Strip's racing career will continue.
“I’m not saying he’s going to be retired if he doesn’t win, but he needs to run well to continue,” Waller.
“We’re not here just to make up the numbers, we’re here to make sure that he’s back.
“He doesn’t deserve to be going around if he’s not.”
Can Nature Strip Bounce Back?
After winning The Shorts at Randwick on September 17 last year, Nature Strip has yet to secure another victory. During the spring campaign, he placed fourth in The Everest and second in the Champions Sprint at Flemington. However, he was unable to place in both the Black Caviar Lightning and TJ Smith Stakes at his only two starts in 2023. Despite this, Nature Strip has recently shown promise, with two strong 900m trials at Rosehill in August. Trainer Chris Waller is optimistic about his chances and hopes to secure a spot in the $20 million The Everest on October 14.
“He’s come back well, he’s trialled well, everybody’s seen how he’s come back,” Waller said.
“Both his trials have been brilliant. We’ve just got positive comments every time he has worked.”
The nominations for the Concorde Stakes race were extended due to a low number of entries. Among the potential rivals for Nature Strip are Eduardo, In Secret, and Bella Nipotina, all of whom are Group One, winners.