Trainer says super mare still has time to shine
Ray Hickson
Super Bright is a strong name in Nathan Doyle’s stable and although his racing days are numbered, he would like to think he can show there are more victories to come before time runs out at Warwick Farm on Wednesday.
The seven-year-old filly won at Canterbury in January and, with stronger autumn carnival racing in store, is resurfacing for what could be her final preparation in the Catanach Jewelers Handicap (1100m).
With six wins from 41 starts and almost $400,000 in prize money, Doyle said he was a great horse for the stable and now was the right time for him to start.
“He’s been around for a while and has been as honest with the owners as ever,” Doyle said.
“He is fit, healthy and enjoying his races but the day he tells us he is not, he will retire.
“We’ve given him some relief after his last start in off-season planning for winter racing.
“He appreciates dipping his toe in, so we thought this would be the right plan.”
Doyle said Super Bright had freshened up from his last fourth start, when he was beaten by half a length at Canterbury at the end of February, and he expected him to be competitive, although more effective at 1200m.
“He struggles with bad obstacles, when you pull well you can get a couple closer to him which is vital for him,” he said.
“A good gate helps and we should be able to drive it just behind the pace.
“It looks like the right race, the 1100m is probably not up to his best but he had a soft trial and can sprint very freshly.”
Rush Attack will be making his second run since last June and his first for a month when Doyle rolls the dice in the Exceedence @ Vinery Stud Handicap (1300m).
The Newcastle trainer said the gelding was waiting to find the right scenario to thrive in his first run but he wasn’t being done any favours, so he had to go to the races and try his luck.
“I drew it twice because it was drawn badly and drawn wider,” he said.
“You can’t sit at home in the penalty box forever. It’s not ideal, but his first run was good.”
“He’s in the group of 72 and we’re just trying to find the right races for him and improve him.”
