Trainer Dan Morton initially felt disappointed with Super Smink’s showing in the Group 1 C.F. Orr Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield two weeks ago.
Expecting a standout performance from his prized mare, Morton had to reassess after she finished seventh behind Another Wil and Mr Brightside in her first interstate race.
Upon closer inspection, Morton realized the seven-length loss wasn’t as bad as it appeared, given that Super Smink raced on the least favorable section of the Caulfield track.
Running along the inside rail for most of the race, the four-year-old mare didn’t display her usual finishing burst. However, Morton remains confident in her abilities despite the outcome.
Super Smink will return to Caulfield on Saturday, aiming for redemption in the Futurity Stakes (1400m), and Morton is optimistic about her chances.
“On the day it was a bit of a head scratcher because I’m not used to her not attacking the line,” Morton told Racing WA.
“But after reviewing it and the way the track played, the general consensus was the inside wasn’t where you needed to be.
“That said, there’s no sugar coating it, she popped late, it looked to me she was going to run into third or fourth.
“Weighing it all up she’s pulled up really well and I know she’ll come forward from the run.
“All things added up I’m pretty happy going forward and feel like we are going to improve.
“I’ve said it a hundred times, we’re under no illusion, we know what we are up against.
“But, I’ve got a lot of confidence in her, she’s a four-year-old mare on the rise.
“I have no doubt about that and she looks mint.”
Super Smink, a $1.2 million earner, was purchased for just $45,000 at the Perth Magic Millions yearling sale three years ago.
She made history as a two-year-old by sweeping the Magic Millions WA 2YO Classic (1200m), Karrakatta Plate (1200m), and WA Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m), an unprecedented feat.
Her impressive resume also includes victories in the Belgravia Stakes (1200m) and the Asian Beau Stakes (1400m).
Currently listed at $31 in the all-in market for the Futurity Stakes by wagering companies, Super Smink will have a new jockey for her second Melbourne appearance, with Billy Egan replacing John Allen.
Meanwhile, Mr Brightside stands as the clear $1.70 favorite with online betting sites.
Morton remains hopeful that Super Smink can secure a place in the All-Star Mile following her Futurity Stakes run.
