Trainer David Hayes hoping Dubai trip the springboard to bigger races for Faatinah

[Nergal]

 

FAATINAH’S successful campaign in Dubai in January could be the catalyst for the sprinter to reach new heights in the spring.

Trainer David Hayes is certain that trip has improved the six-year-old gelding and will put that theory to the test in Saturday’s Carlyon Stakes (1000m) at Moonee Valley.

“It often happens that horses come back from a trip away better and I think that’s the case with him judging by his work and trials,” Hayes said. “His Flemington jumpout was excellent, and it looks like he’s gone to another level.”

Last year Faatinah finished sixth in the Moir Stakes, beaten less than two lengths.

Hayes said he was unlucky as he was held up for a run. If he runs well on Saturday, he will again start in the Moir at Moonee Valley on September 28.

“If he can find another length this time in then we can confidently look towards big races with him,” he said. “He’s already a Group 1 placegetter with a second in the Oakleigh Plate.”

Hayes said Redkirk Warrior would arrive back in Australia on Saturday week and be set for the Darley Classic at Flemington on November 10.

Sydney trainer Marc Conners hopes his speedy mare, Super Too, can grab a listed race win in today’s Carlyon Stakes before the big-name sprinters resume.

“We thought we’d get in before the big boys get going. She gets in quite well with 54 kilos and we’ve got Damien Oliver to ride her, so hopefully she’s ticked a few boxes,” he said.

Super Too has enjoyed two trials at Warwick Farm, with a second to Invincible Star followed by a 10-length win.

Conners said he intended to use Super Too’s speed and hope she keeps going. She’s going to fire off from the outside gate and get across, that’s what she does. She runs along and we’ll see if they can catch her.”

Tony McEvoy’s Hey Doc is a $4.20 favourite with Super Too and Faatinah equal second favourites at $5.50 with TAB fixed odds.