The initial signs suggest the gelding operation performed on Jigsaw has worked but trainer Cindy Alderson wants to see continued improvement from the sprinter.
After showing above average potential, Jigsaw was sent for the ‘unkindest cut of all’ at the conclusion of his last campaign, in November.
A first-up fifth at Caulfield last month was followed by a win at Cranbourne on May 13 and Jigsaw returns to the city on Saturday to run in the Take It To The Neds Level Handicap (1200m) at Caulfield.
Alderson describes Jigsaw as a ‘quirky little fella’ who was never a bad colt but thought the gelding operation may just help him focus a little more.
“It didn’t seem to have an effect early, but it may just be starting to work now,” Alderson told RSN.
“It’s been an interesting journey as a trainer having that horse because he is a little different in the way he seems to process things.”
Things started to go awry with Jigsaw when he raced in blinkers at The Valley last August where he over-raced in the headgear.
“He’s a sensitive fella and doesn’t deal well with things that don’t go his way, so that had a bit of a flow on effect for the rest of his races,” Alderson said.
“He’s always had nice galloping ability, he just needs to manage it a bit better.”
Jigsaw has gate 17 on Saturday and has Michael Walker in the saddle.
Walker rode Jigsaw early in his career before a fall at Pakenham last year put him on the sidelines for 12 months and the gelding will the jockey’s second city ride since returning to the saddle on May 12.
Alderson said she will leave it up to Walker how best ride Jigsaw.
“He can begin well, gets into stride quickly and he has a high cruising speed,” Alderson said.
“That sort of horse should always be forward, if possible, but you just don’t want to see him overdoing it, which he can do from time to time.
“I’m hoping Michael can work it out.”