Four year old mare GIN ‘N’ BITTERS returns to racing at the Sunshine Coast tomorrow , looking to keep her unbeaten record intact , after winning two on the bounce last November.
The imposing daughter of SEBRING made a strong impression when winning impressively on debut before confirming her potential with another strong win over the same course and distance three weeks later.
Top hoop Robbie Fradd steered her to victory on both of those occasions and he sticks with her again first up tomorrow courtesy of the new racing zones established in Queensland in light of the current Covid-19 pandemic sweeping the globe.
“We are in the zone which includes Eagle Farm , Doomben and our home track (Sunshine Coast) which I think is a bonus ” said trainer Billy Healey .
“This mare has spelled very well and we are looking forward to kicking her off at home tomorrow”.
Healey was a tad concerned with the wide draw , however after scratchings , she comes into at least gate 10 . Most speed maps suggest she is the natural leader in the race.
“We think she is a horse with good ability , but you always worry about them first up from wide draws” said part owner Matt Lang .
“What she she showed us last prep probably exceeded our expectations , but it’s a good problem to have”.
The mare was originally purchased online as a breeding prospect after suffering a bleed when originally trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott in Sydney .
“We actually had her booked into Darley stallion IMPENDING last spring but thankfully she began to show glimpses of ability on the track so we decided to roll the dice and give her a run” added Lang.
Trainer Billy Healey didn’t hesitate to send her for a spell following her first two victories, mindful of the impacts a hot Queensland summer could have on her , but also with an eye firmly on the Brisbane winter carnival riches.
Unfortunately the Winter Carnival has been impacted by Covid-19 and Racing Queensland have acted responsibly to the crisis by deferring the richer races in lieu of a more pragmatic approach which ensures the sustainability of the racing industry .
“We are thankful racing is able to continue in what are uncertain times ” said Lang .
“A first up win would be a lovely tonic for all of us involved “.
GIN ‘N’BITTERS has developed somewhat of a fan club north of the border , with Healey getting countless emails and messages asking when she was back .
The mare has opened as the $2.50 fav in most markets so hopefully those loyal fans are rewarded with a first up victory tomorrow afternoon.
