Trainer James Cummings will get a better idea what the Spring Carnival holds ahead for the well-bred Alizee after she is tested over 1400m in the Group 2 $200,000 McGrath Estate Agents Tea Rose Stakes at Randwick on Saturday.
Tulip, above, is one of the top chances in the Tea Rose Stakes at Randwick. Photo by Steve Hart.
Alizee is the half-sister to the 2016 Golden Rose winner Astern, by Sepoy out of Essaouria, but has a long way to go to equal the deeds of her illustrious big brother.
“We’re trying her over 1400m here and we’re yet to be convinced that she’ll run it out strongly, but in her training at home she’s giving the indication that she will,” Cummings said.
“Either way, it’s not hurting her, she’s thriving, enjoying her work and she’s getting that bit better at the races every time from what I can see of her attitude.”
Alizee has drawn barrier six in the Tea Rose Stakes with Glyn Schofield taking over the reins from Hugh Bowman who was aboard the filly last start when fourth to Formality in the Group 2 $200,000 Furious Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on September 2.
Schofield is no stranger to the Godolphin owned filly and was aboard her for her maiden victory over 1100m at Warwick Farm on August 2 and again when second to Formality in the Group 2 $200,000 Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on August 19.
The Cummings trained Regimen (barrier 5) will also carry the Godolphin royal blue colours in the Tea Rose Stakes with Brenton Avdulla in the saddle and the Sepoy filly is rated as a $15 chance.
The Bjorn Baker trained Champagne Cuddles went down narrowly last start when second to Formality in the Furious Stakes and has been installed as the early $3.10 favourite for the Tea Rose Stakes at Ladbrokes.com.au.
Tye Angland is again partnering Champagne Cuddles who has drawn awkwardly at barrier nine in the twelve horse field.
The Lindsay Park trained Tulip is on the second line of betting at $3.70 with Hugh Bowman to ride from barrier 4 and is coming off a first up nose second to Roomooz in a 1200m three year old Fillies Plate at The Valley on August 26.
