The team behind Warp Speed is optimistic about the Japanese stayer’s prospects in Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup, despite a disappointing performance in the Caulfield Cup. According to stable representative Kosi Kawakami, Warp Speed has been in good form since the race, and they’re confident a return to dry, fast-paced conditions will allow him to showcase his strengths.
In the Caulfield Cup, Warp Speed faced challenges on a wet, sticky track—conditions that Japanese horses seldom encounter. He also suffered a bump at the start, forcing him to sit back throughout the race. “We can definitely forgive that run, and we can actually forget that run,” Kawakami explained.
With barrier 3 for the 3200m Melbourne Cup, the team is focusing on a clean start and a strong position for Warp Speed to fully use his stamina. Japanese jockey Akira Sugawara, 23, will ride Warp Speed and plans to walk the Flemington track with the team on Monday to familiarise himself with the course.
“Hopefully he can get clean out the gates… so he can utilise his stamina, which is his strong point,” Kawakami said, looking forward to a strong performance on Cup Day.
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