Bjorn Baker is confident that classy mare Egyptian Symbol has the ability to post a maiden win at the highest level in Saturday’s 2017 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m), in what will be her first appearance in Group 1 company.
Egyptian Symbol will return to the races in Saturday’s Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes at Morphettville. Photo: Steve Hart
Egyptian Symbol has been a strong and largely consistent performer for Baker throughout her entire racing career so far, posting five wins and a further seven minors through only fifteen starts, but has been caught ate the fore of the field in several recent starts and has struggled to maintain to the line on those occasions.
Baker told Racing Victoria that the daughter of Stratum is in terrific order and he is hopeful that she can find a position behind in the speed in Saturday’s Robert Sangster Stakes, before being produced late in the race.
“I don’t know how it’s come about with her (that in) a couple of her runs – particularly Magic Millions, and when she raced on Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington – she was on the speed,” Baker said.
“I think she’s definitely a better horse if she can get a little bit of cover, she tends to relax a lot better.
“She doesn’t have to get right back, but if she can settle off the speed, I think she’s got a really good turn of foot. If she leads, it seems to be nullified.
“I couldn’t be happier with her going into the Sangster, it looks to be a good race, but she’s fresh and well, she’s one horse being peaked for it, while for some of the others, it’s an afterthought so I’m hoping that can play into our hands.”
Resuming in spring for a smart win in the Group 3 Nivison Stakes (1200m), Egyptian Symbol failed to fire when caught on pace and fifth in the Group 3 Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes (1400m), but returned in December to win the Wyong Magic Millions 3YO & 4YO Classic (1200m).
Running sixth in the Magic Millions Plate (1300m) on January 14th, the mare out of Our Egyptian Raine was last seen running well for second behind In Her Time in the Group 2 Breeders’ Classic (1200m) on February 4th.
The 2017 Robert Sangster Stakes field and barrier draw is due to be completed and released by midday, Wednesday.
