Co-trainer Paul Messara has elected to take a different path with Clear Thinking, bypassing the Hot Danish Stakes in favour of a crack at black-type glory in the $1 million The Hunter at Newcastle on Saturday.
The six-year-old mare has built an outstanding record, claiming five wins from seven career starts, the latest a powerful performance in the Kosciuszko (1200m), where she charged home from midfield to win in convincing fashion.
While already Group placed, Clear Thinking has yet to break through at Stakes level, and Messara believes this weekend’s feature offers the perfect opportunity.
“The way it’s worked out, that’s probably the better race for us,” Messara said.
“She has been working very well, it’s 1300, and it’s not too far from home.
“It’s a good prizemoney race and the Hot Danish, with the set weights, I thought she’d be better off in The Hunter.”
Messara said the timing and placement of The Hunter were ideal for the talented mare, who continues to develop with each preparation.
“Where it falls at the end of the carnival, it’s hopefully a touch softer than some of these very competitive races so we’re hopeful she can springboard off this to other things.”
Clear Thinking resumed with her Kosciuszko victory in October and has been kept fresh since, with Messara adopting a patient approach as she looks to take the next step in her career.
“We’re keen to get her some black type, that’s the key for her, just to nail down her residual value,” he said.
“There are a couple of other races potentially for her heading towards December. But also, it will depend on how far we think she is going to run so we’ll just take it race by race.”
Saturday’s edition of The Hunter has attracted a full field of 16, including Joe Pride’s strong quartet of Coal Crusher, Estadio Mestalla, Accredited and Golden Mile. Last year’s winners Hawkes Racing will saddle up Airman in a bid for back-to-back victories.
If you’re having a flutter on The Hunter, compare betting odds and promos through the Australian betting sites list.
