Bjorn Baker is looking forward to one-time Magic Millions contender Champagne Cuddles making her black-type debut after missing the $2 million race with a leg injury.
The filly lines up in the Group Two Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) on Saturday, her first start since she won a two-year-old race at her second start.
Her win on debut in the Pierro Plate at Rosehill last spring was followed by more than six months off after she chipped a bone in a fetlock.
Had that injury not occurred, Baker thought Champagne Cuddles was a genuine contender for the Magic Millions 2YO Classic in January so a degree frustration should ease on Saturday.
“I’ve got a lot of time for her and she’s two from two, but she’s up against it in a Group Two,” Baker said.
Providing she races to expectation, Champagne Cuddles will then target the Group Two Furious Stakes (1200m) on September 2.
Baker also has the future in mind for five-year-old Imposing Lass, who is listed to race for the first time since January in the Group Three Toy Show Quality (1300m).
“It’s a tough race to start back in but she’s a consistent mare, she puts herself on speed and she’s in good order.
“Whatever she does she will improve on when we look to go to the Mona Lisa (September 2) and probably the Tibbie at Newcastle (September 15),” Baker said.
Durable gelding Embley runs in a Benchmark 90 Handicap (1400m) as he seeks his first placing of this campaign.
“It’s going to be a big ask but I’m really happy with how he’s going,” Baker said.
Consistent mare Sangiovese rounds out Baker’s team in a Benchmark 82 (1000m), her eighth start this time in.
“She’s going to have to draw well. If she can get a run behind the speed and finish off, she’ll be a chance,” Baker said.
– AAP
