Leon Corstens identified the Toorak Handicap as a possible spring target for Commanding Jewel after her victory in Saturday’s Let’s Elope Stakes at Flemington.
Corstens seemed to baulk at the prospect of Commanding Jewel taking on her older half sister Atlantic Jewel in a Cox Plate
“Her sister is a champion, absolute champion. After this I think we might head towards the Toorak,” Corstens said.
“I was a little worried early in the race, I just thought she was on the bit a little. i was just hoping she would settle.
“She peeled out in the straight and put paid to them nicely.”
Corstens said he was unsure what route Commanding Jewel would take to get to the Toorak Handicap.
Commanding Jewel, a $9 chance, scored by a half length from the Chris Waller-trained Catkins, $10, with an identical margin to A Time For Julia, $8 favourite, third.
Corstens re-affirmed that Damien Oliver, who resumes later next week from an eight-month disqualification and two month suspension for his $10,000 bet in a Moonee Valley race in October 2010, will take over for the rest of the spring.
He said that Ben Melham rode a brilliant race in the Let’s Elope, but it has always been the intention that Oliver would take over as jockey.
– TVN
