Fields of Omagh Ready for Return
- Tuesday, 06 August 2002 00:00
Talented galloper Fields
Of Omagh will kick off his spring campaign in Sunday's $100,000 Aurie's Star Handicap
(1200m) down the straight at Flemington.The five-year-old hasn't raced since last spring, having injured a suspensory ligament. Prior to the injury, though, he was being touted as racing's most improved horse, winning six races on-end culminating in the Group 3 Eclipse Stakes at Sandown last November.
"We gave him a long time off, including the entire autumn, but he's good as gold now," trainer Tony McEvoy said.
"He's ready to return and the Aurie's Star looks a nice starting point for the spring. He does have a bit of form at 1200m but it was in restricted class. He's likely to find this a bit sharp and it's a serious race."
Nominations for the event include VRC Oaks winner Magical Miss, Dash For Cash, SA Derby winner Pantani, Prince Rubiton, Fritz, Flavour and Gypsy Lad.
McEvoy has nominated Fields Of Omagh for the Cox Plate and Caulfield and Melbourne Cups.
"I'm hopeful to get
him to the Caulfield Cup," McEvoy said.
"The way he finished off the Eclipse (2119m) he should get the distance no problems. His best distance, though, may be the mile-and-a-quarter, so maybe he'll run in the Cox Plate. It's a long way to go to those races and he has to measure up first."
McEvoy also has Singapore winner North Boy and Melbourne Triple Crown winner Elegant Fashion nearly ready to start their respective spring campaigns.
"Both horses are great," McEvoy said.
"North Boy is ticking along nicely and will begin the spring in the Manikato Stakes on September 14. Elegant Fashion is a bit different. I really don't want her to run into Sunline first-up. She'll either resume in the Cockram Stakes, the Liston Stakes or the Memsie Stakes. Her main aim will be the Caulfield Cup. She ran a great race in the AJC Oaks where she fought on really well but she has a bit of brilliance as well."
McEvoy is hoping to give her an exhibition gallop along with stablemate Pompous between races at Morphettville this weekend.
PICS - Quentin Lang.
Media Release - Jason Hickson (TRSA)