Lizzie aiming at Fleur De Lil Ladyship

Harness racing connections of in-form mare Summertime Lizzie are now eyeing off winter carnival riches.

The former Sydney mare has thrived since being placed in the care of leading Logan Village training partnership of Vicki Rasmussen and Shane Graham.

During her stint in the Sunshine State, the Santanna Blue Chip six-year-old has built up a fine record of six wins and six minor placings from 16 starts to date.

But the recent form surge of 6 victories from her past 8 starts now has connections eyeing the mares feature during the carnival.

The $20,500 Fleur De Lil Ladyship Stakes is scheduled for July 8 at Albion Park.

“It’s definitely on the radar given her recent form; the conditions of that race look really suitable for her and she’s now proven she can run a very good mile. Given how she performs in her next start will determine what path we choose.” Graham said.

Summertime Lizzie returned to the winners circle yesterday (Tuesday) rating 1:54.7 at Albion Park following two defeats.

Prior to that, the speedy mare recorded five straight victories at Albion Park including a career best effort of 1:51.9 when successful in the $15,540 Seymour Rising Stars Championship Final on May 14 when defeating the highly regarded Mattgregor.

“It was a solid effort yesterday but the early burn helped us greatly, when I turned her loose down the back she really felt sharp and in control. I think her best efforts have been at the shorter trips.

“Plenty were disappointed when she suffered those recent defeats but when you sit down and study her efforts, they were more than reasonable and her sectionals will back that up.

“The Fleur De Lil will be a strong race with the likes of Smooth Showgirl and Rocker Band among others headed that way but with a good draw, I don’t think she’ll be too far away.”

Summertime Lizzie is raced by Adam Sofoulis.

Last year, classy mare Barynya scored in the Fleur De Lil Ladyship Stakes in a time of 1:53.9.

Barynya is now racing in North America for trainer Chris Oakes.

Chris Barsby