Recommendation’s recent victories in Melbourne’s black-type sprints have earned him a shot at Group 1 success this spring. Trainer Ciaron Maher is optimistic about his potential, stating the best is yet to come.
Stablemates Bella Nipotina and Estriella are also gearing up for the spring. Bella Nipotina, a superb sprinter, is freshening up after a successful Autumn and Winter Carnival. Estriella, who gained attention last spring and autumn, is being primed for a strong season as a four-year-old.
Assistant trainer Jack Turnbull is confident in Estriella’s progress. “She’s matured and after about a month off, she has really developed,” he said. Estriella is set to start in the Moir Stakes on September 7, with hopes of securing a slot in The Everest if she performs well. Currently in good condition at Fingal stables, she is expected to jump out in a few weeks.
Turnbull believes Estriella’s potential is rising quickly. “Ability-wise, she’s got the profile. We need a slot in The Everest but of our sprinting ranks with Bella, she’s rising pretty quick.”
Bella Nipotina, with two wins and two placings from her last four elite runs, is enjoying a break at the beach in NSW, preparing for a potential Everest bid.
The G1 Moir Stakes is shaping up to be an early spring highlight, with Estriella as the early favourite. Despite not having an Everest slot yet, she remains a strong contender for Randwick’s October feature.