Winx a chance to run in Emirates Stakes at Flemington

Source: Greg Denham – The Australian /

The Flemington carnival could get an unexpected and almighty boost on the final day on Saturday week with glamour mare Winx still a chance to have her final run in the spring in the Group 1 Emirates Stakes (2000m).

Trainer Chris Waller was giving little away today but he has not ruled out another Melbourne Start for the all-conquering queen of the turf, describing her chances as 50/50 to compete in the $2 million race.

Winx wins the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley. Photo: David Smith
Winx wins the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley. Photo: David Smith

Three days after winning her third straight Cox Plate, Waller said a decision would be made “later in the week” after taking everything into account.

“I had anticipated to have it done now, but there’s been no discussion between myself and the jockey, Hugh Bowman,” Waller said.

“And I haven’t said anything more than congratulations to the owners and the horse has pulled up well.

“I’ll put all the cards on the table in front of them considering it’s possibly the sixth run of her preparation, which is certainly the most runs (without a spell) that she’s had so far.

“I’ll put everything in front of them and we’ll make a joint decision in terms of longevity for the horse and obviously for the fans as well. Our decision will be based around those things.”

Winx was given a leisurely workout at Flemington today before daybreak. “She had a light jog on the track and was picture perfect,” Waller said.

“I haven’t even spoken to Hugh Bowman (at length) yet, I spoke to him briefly as he got off the horse, we embraced and just said well done. Haven’t discussed any part of the race or anything like that, or anything beyond that, which I realise everybody’s so keen to find out.

“All I can tell you is that she’s pulled up very well, that was first of foremost.

“Fortunately she’s coming out the other side in good shape. She went into to race at 526 kilograms, she came out of the race exactly the same weight and that’s something quite remarkable.

“First that tells you they’re well going into the race but most importantly they are recovering so quickly. Feed bin’s been left clean, she’s eating up every night and she’s had a couple of days at the beach.”