Yet to be defeated over four impressive race starts in his short career, trainer James Cummings is confident a step back in class and distance will not hinder the chances of classy colt Hallowed Crown in this afternoon’s Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) at Royal Randwick.
Trainer James Cummings is confident Hallowed Crown will have no problem performing over 1200m in the Roman Consul Stakes. Photo: Steve Hart
Allocated the wide and awkward barrier 14 for the featured Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m) last time out on September 13th, Hallowed Crown displayed an exceptional turn of foot in the final straight to secure a maiden victory at the highest level of racing and stamp his claims as a serious three-year-old contender.
Confirming the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) on Derby Day remains the major target for the Street Sense colt, Cummings told The Daily Telegraph the team is confident of continued success through the Roman Consul Stakes this afternoon.
“The Golden Rose form is looking good,” Cummings said.
“We have some nice three-year-old colts this season but Hallowed Crown has beaten all the other colts to win at Group 1 level so he has that mantle.
“Hallowed Crown is thriving, we have stuck to the system with him and he has done really well wince the Golden Rose.
“He takes another step towards the Coolmore on Saturday and he gets a race at Randwick for the first time this preparation which is a nice change for him.
“He has always impressed us every time we have thrown him another challenge at him and I would not imagine coming back in trip will make him too vulnerable.”
Reportedly suffering from a cough over the late stages of this week, Hallowed Crown will be vetted upon his arrival at Randwick today, but is expected to be cleared to run in the Roman Consul Stakes.
Debuting with a comfortable win in the TAB Early Quaddie Plate (1150m) on March 26th, Hallowed Crown more than announced his racing arrival when taking out the Group 3 Kindergarten Stakes (1100m) on Day 1 of The Championships.
Having comfortably won the Group 3 Run To The Rose (1200m) in his only other start prior to the Golden Rose, Hallowed Crown is understandably favourite to take out the Roman Consul Stakes this afternoon; currently available at a quote of $2.25 with Ladbrokes Australia.
