Comfysofa leads the way
Simon Miller is banking on Comfysofa to launch what he hopes will be a big 2014 when the talented galloper contests tomorrow's $90,000 Mungrup Stud Sprint (1305m) at Mount Barker.
With a host of quality horses set for big things this year, the Aquanita trainer plans to raid several interstate carnivals.
His schedule includes a Melbourne autumn carnival assault with Miss Rose De Lago, the winner of the Champion Fillies Stakes at Ascot in November.
"She had her first gallop on Thursday and she flew," Miller said. Quality mare Platinum Rocker and three-year-old Saint Bro will return from spells next week and could head to Brisbane for the winter carnival.
Closer to home, Miller is likely to launch a three-pronged attack on next Saturday's $100,000 Miss Andretti Stakes (1200m) at Ascot with Hussy By Choice, Roman Knows and Bombora.
Miller hatched a plan 10 weeks ago to give breeders Gray and Jan Williamson a sentimental win in the Mungrup Stud Sprint with Comfysofa.
The Williamsons, who bred and retained a share in Comfysofa, have sponsored the Mount Barker feature since 1998.
"It looks a good race for him," Miller said. "His gallop on Tuesday was brilliant."
Comfysofa was freshened after winning two of his past four starts at Ascot, boosting his record to six wins from 13 starts.
The five-year-old has drawn barrier two tomorrow and will be ridden by Jason Whiting.
"The only concern is how he'll handle the track, but Fishy (Whiting) rides it well," Miller said.
"He's the right style of horse to zip around the track."
Meanwhile, trainer Fred Kersley is hoping progressive galloper Northpace will be sharp enough to figure in today's TABTouch Your Industry Your TAB Handicap (1500m) at Ascot.
Kersley, who dominated the Ascot summer carnival with Ihtsahymn, freshened Northpace after his close-up fourth in the WA St Leger (2100m) last month.
"He should have nearly won the St Leger," Kersley said. "Coming back from 2100 to 1500 is probably not ideal.
"He's on the fresh side, but I'm hoping he can sprint. He'll play a part in the race, it just depends on whether he's sharp enough."
Former Belmont Oaks (2000m) winner Rantorini will make her debut for Kersley in today's twitter.com/perthracing Handicap (1400m).
"We're still learning about her," he said. "I think she'll go OK first-up, but she might need luck from the barrier (one)."
Apprentice Chris Parnham is booked to ride Northpace and jockey Patrick Carbery will partner Rantorini.
