After an upset victory in the Group 3 Hawkesbury Crown a fortnight ago, the Bjorn Baker -trained Exotic Ruby will be hoping for more black type success when she lines up in Saturday’s $200,000 fillies and mares feature.
With a majority of the nominations finishing behind Exotic Ruby in her last start victory, Chris Waller’s sole nominated runner Brookspire is expected to once again attract heavy market support.
Having started favourite when disappointing in her first-up assignment in the Hawkesbury Crown, Waller will be hoping the mare can add to her handy second-up record and bring with it his maiden victory in the race.
Another runner who will be striving to turn the tables on Exotic Ruby is the John O’Shea-trained five-year-old Fashchanel. Finishing third last start, a return to the winner’s circle would see O’Shea notch up his third Classic and second in as many years after taking out last year’s edition with Rocha Clock.
Other intriguing nominations include the Ciaron Maher & David Eustace-trained Quintello, who will be looking to add a third consecutive victory to the tally, and British import Alnaseem, who will be potentially stepping out on her Australian debut for Michael Freeman.
Having won three of the last four editions of the race, James Cummings will be hoping Andermatt can continue his tremendous form and fly the flag high for the Blue Army in the Luskin Star Stakes (1300m).
Dual nominated for the Listed Ortensia Stakes (1100m), the four-year-old gelding is expected to sit atop of the market in whichever race he accepts.
Other exciting nominations for the 1300m Listed feature include Tamworth Cup winner Bandersnatch and last start Queensland Listed Daybreak Lover victor Flying Crazy.
The remaining Listed events on Scone’s 10-race card include the three-year-old fillies Denise’s Joy Stakes (1100m) and four-year-old fillies Woodlands Stakes (1100m).
Currently rated a Soft 5, the rail is out three metres from the 800m to the winning post and true the remainder.