Craig Newitt described Rubiton Stakes winner Lankan Rupee as a “seriously good horse”.
Newitt said Lankan Rupee has furnished into a quality horse after he had been gelded.
“The key to him is that you have to use his good cruising speed as he can accelerate off it,” Newitt said.
Mick Price said Lankan Rupee, a Stakes winner at his past three starts, would now progress to the Oakleigh Plate (1100m) at Caulfield on February 22.
Price said the four-year-old would then head to the Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8 and then to the William Reid (1200m) at Moonee Valley on March 21.
“He’s a big strong horse and last preparation was his first as a gelding and he’s become very consistent. He’s on the right path,” Price said.
“He’s only had one trial leading into the Rubiton, he hasn’t been screwed right down to win first up.”
Lankan Rupee, the $2.90 favorite, speared straight to the front and was untroubled to win by three and three-quarter lengths from Iconic, $16, with a half neck to First Command, $26, third.
– Racing NetworkI
