Sandown
Race 9 – Asfoora
Jockey – Jye McNeil
1100m – Barrier 6
Star sprinter Asfoora is first-up into today’s Group-1 Oakleigh Plate after an excellent spring campaign. The three-year-old daughter of Flying Artie obliterated her rivals fresh last time in, smashing the clock in a blistering display. From there she won at Group-2 and Group-3 level, with Dwyer sending her to the paddock with today’s race firmly front of mind. The filly has returned in terrific order, looking sharp in her jumpouts and prepared to face the toughest test of her career to this point. Trainer Dwyer is confident his galloper is ready for this next challenge. “I couldn’t be happier with her. She couldn’t have had a smoother preparation”, he said. “She’ll go there and run as good as she’s capable of”. Jockey Jye McNeil will land on or near the speed from a good draw, conscious of not getting involved in a mad battle in the early parts. I Am Me and Zoustyle look the main speed influences, and McNeil will want some gas left in the tank for the last 100-metres up the Sandown incline. Lofty Strike and Uncommon James will be motoring late, meaning Asfoora will need a kick left in the locker to take out this deep Group-1 contest. She’s up to this.
Currently, Asfoora is a $6.50 chance in the market.