Dual Group One winner primed for return

DUAL Group One winner Dr Susan will kick start her latest feature race preparation this weekend.

Sent for a well-earned break following her third in the Golden Easter Egg on April 18, Dr Susan is being readied for the Australasian Breeders’ Crown.

Traditionally run in August, the futurity was rescheduled to November this year.

A revelation this season, Dr Susan has won eight of her 17 starts for the term, with five placings and earnings of $237,653 also to her credit.

With trainer Sonya Smith stating the filly has thrived during her time off Dr Susan is expected to produce a forward showing at Club Menangle on Saturday night.

“She is feeling really good,” Smith said. “She did really well during break.

“She has had a couple of solid trials, and although she will need the run to tighten her up, she is in good shape.”

To be driven Jack Trainor, the daughter of Bettors Delight has drawn the widest of the six starters over a mile.

“The draw against the colts has made it tough,” Smith said. “The other option on the night was racing her in the mares’ race but she would have drawn 10 against open age mares.”

Citing Mach Da Vinci as the one to beat, Smith also predicts Perfect Stride to play a strong role in the finish.

Winner of his last two starts, Mach Da Vinci will begin from barrier four.

Prepared by Smith’s partner Anthony Butt, Perfect Stride has drawn gate five.

“Mach Da Vinci is in good form and is the one to beat,” Smith said. “Perfect Stride will also be right in it.

“He was a little off at his last run but has come good now.”