An undefeated filly and an improving import will comprise Tommy Berry’s two feature race rides for leading trainer Chris Waller at Randwick, with the hoop confident both can play major roles.
Berry will partner the resuming Lazzaro in Saturday’s Furious Stakes (1200m) before reacquainting himself with six-year-old Buckaroo in the Group 2 Chelmsford Stakes (1600m).
A Listed winner over a similar journey in Ireland, Buckaroo is yet to break through in five Australian starts.
But off the back of his Group 1 placing in the Ranvet Stakes (2000m) during the autumn and a late-closing first-up effort behind Via Sistina in a star-studded renewal of the Winx Stakes (1400m), Berry is warming to his chances.
“I have always had a lot of time for this horse,” Berry said.
“He’s a gelding now and it was a really nice run from him first-up against some very sharp horses, and they ran quick time.
“He was strong through the line and it’s a good set-up for him on Saturday.”
Berry likewise holds Lazzura in high regard, having guided her to a black-type win at just her second race start in the Listed Woodlands Stakes (1200m) at Scone in May.
She will face a different level of rival again against the likes of ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes winner Manaal and Silver Shadow Stakes heroine Ameena, who will both have a fitness edge on her.
Berry has no doubt Lazzura has a bright future but cautions she is still developing and whatever she does this spring, the autumn will be her time.
“I loved her when I rode her because she was so raw and immature,” Berry said.
“Even though she has come back stronger, when you look at her in the yard, she has still got a bit of growing to do.
“We’re looking forward to her coming back and think she is going to have a good spring, but the autumn is when I think we’ll see her at her best.
“In saying that, she has drawn very well to get a nice run, she’s had two good trials and she will definitely make her presence felt.”