Consistent mare Catkins is highly unlikely to run in the Doncaster Mile at Royal Randwick next Saturday despite scoring an easy win in the Emancipation Stakes at Rosehill Gardens.
Trainer Chris Waller said while the $3 million carrot is enticing, he feels the best chance to win a Group 1 race for his mare is to progress towards the Queen Of The Turf Stakes on April 19.
“The Doncaster is one of the toughest Group 1s in the country and she can take on her own sex at weight-for-age a week later for $1 million,” Waller said.
“That would be my recommendation to the owners but we have until Tuesday to make our mind up.”
Catkins, who firmed to $1.45 on course, settled outside the leader and never looked in danger as she defeated Sharnee Rose and Angel Of Mercy.
“It was quite painless,” said jockey Hugh Bowman.
“She was so well placed (Saturday), this race was perfect for her and while I think she prefers a little firmer footing, she was just too good for them.”
Catkins has firmed to $3 favourite for the Queen Of The Turf Stakes with stablemate Red Tracer easing from $4.50 to $5.
– Racing Network
