The G1 Oakleigh Plate could give Tropicus (Too Darn Hot {GB}) his defining moment on Saturday at Caulfield.
The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained 4-year-old entire, owned by Kia Ora Stud, already boasts wins in the G3 Zeditave Stakes and the G3 Heath Stakes at Caulfield, along with three Group placings. But it’s a Group 1 that would truly elevate his commercial appeal.
By Too Darn Hot (GB) and out of the four-time winner and Group 3-placed Exceed And Excel mare Extensible, herself a full-sister to Listed Belle Of The Turf Stakes winner Cathay Lady (Exceed And Excel), he brings a solid pedigree.
“He puts himself up there, he doesn’t require luck, he is bombproof, he is honest, his record at 1100 metres at Caulfield is there for everyone to see.” Co-trainer Sam Freedman commented to racing.com
“He’s also raced at a better level than what he is facing on Saturday, if Caulfield plays a little bit leaderish or it’s difficult to make ground then I would have Tropicus on top.”
It’s an even renewal and a big open field. Point Barrow (Blue Point {Ire}) and Persian Spirit (Cable Bay {Ire}) bring depth, while the Charlotte Littlefield-trained She’s Bulletproof (Shooting To Win) could be the knockout hope.
Article c/o The Thoroughbred Report
