Dickson Expects Karijini Aurora To Fight Out Belmont Oaks
It didn’t go quite right for Karijini Aurora last-start, but trainer Summer Dickson believes the talented filly has a great opportunity to rebound in the Belmont Oaks on Saturday.
The Listed Belmont Oaks has been the target race for Karijini Aurora after she posted a winning hat trick in the Tabtouch Ladies Bracelet (1600m) at Albany in April.
Following a short break the daughter of Trade Fair stamped herself as a horse to watch after she ran a cracking third to Group 1 champion Kay Cee in the Raconteur Stakes (1400m).
Kay Cee again proved superior in the Listed Belmont Guineas (1600m), but if not for being held up at a crucial stage in the straight, Karijini Aurora could have finished closer than fourth.
“She was extremely unlucky, but it makes me all the more determined that she bounces back,” Dickson told The Races WA.
“It was frustrating on my behalf, but I’m just happy that the horse pulled up really well and recovered really well.
“She has progressed since the run and I think she will run out the 2000m, there are no concerns there.
“All the signs indicate that she is going good.”
Karijini Aurora, having her seventh career start in the Belmont Oaks, has drawn barrier six and will be ridden by Alan Kennedy.
He replaces champion hoop William Pike, who has elected to ride undefeated filly, Chantrea, the second favourite.
Kennedy is one for one on Karijini Aurora, having partnered her to victory at Albany in the Ladies Bracelet three months ago.
“It’s unfortunate Willie (Pike) has jumped off her, but Alan knows the horse and has been keen to jump back on since Albany,” Dickson said.
“He rode her at track work the other day which is the first time anyone else has ridden her bar me, which was a bit nerve racking.
“He is riding in good form and believes she is good enough to be in the first two.
“I think she is good enough too, as long as she has clear running.”
Karijini Aurora is $9 with TABtouch, easing from her opening quote of $8.
Kay Cee holds clear favouritism at $1.75. Chantrea has firmed from $5 into $3.60. Cambist is next at $8.
Julio Santarelli