Shaune Ritchie and I had lunch together today to discuss a possible Australian Oaks-Gr.1 start for 2020 NZB 3YO Filly of the Year Jennifer Eccles.
Obviously right now it's very uncertain times with the C-19 issues, so any plans are far from being concrete and a fluid approach is being taken to the way ahead.
Just is important is the wellbeing of the filly, who returned to the track on Wednesday. If she shows signs of having had enough, we will immediately pull the pin and send her to the paddock.
One thing is for certain, Jennifer Eccles will not run in next week's Vinery Stakes - despite being well in the market for that event - and if she does head to Sydney, it will be solely for that one run Oaks mission.
The Rip Van Winkle filly would head to Australia the week of the race and we are fortunate to have an outstanding stable for her to be based and handled in the absence of her trainer & regular track rider/strapper (Colm Murray).
No rider is yet confirmed, though it's fair to say that we have interest from a half-dozen of Australasia's very best jockeys and discussions are ongoing.
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