Mistress staying south and may go to Aussie

Branxholme harness racing trainer Nathan Williamson has decided Captains Mistress (Captaintreacherous) will skip the Northern Oaks and run in the Nevele R/ Macca Lodge Southern Oaks on Diamonds Day at Ascot Park in a fortnight.

The three year old filly resumed on Friday night at Addington, running second to General Jen.

“Luck wasn’t on our side on the night. I did a bit of work to find the lead early and I thought I was rolling along at a genuine pace. Tim came attacking (Tim Williams driving Queen Tyron) and because it’s the start of a big season I didn’t want to get into a war. She did all she could but couldn’t reel in the winner. I was thrilled with the run though,” Williamson said.

After discussing the filly’s plans with owner Mick Boots, it was decided not to run in the Northern Oaks.

“She had a good blow, it was her first race and a big trip away. We have been hamstrung and haven’t been able to get consistent racing into her down here. She’s staying home, going to the Southern Oaks and then to Auckland for the Sires Stakes (9th May). She’s got a big season so I didn’t want to throw her in the deep end too soon.”

That big season could include a trip to Australia.

“We’re looking at a Winter campaign in Queensland. Three months with the sun on her back and then bring her home and prepare for the features in the springtime.”

Williamson says the plan hasn’t been finalised yet and logistics are still to be worked through, but it’s unlikely that’ll he’ll travel over with Captains Mistress.

“Mick’s got horses all over Australia and uses the best trainers. But we’ve still got to work that out.”

Races like the Redcliffe Oaks (28th June) and Queensland Oaks (19th July) could be targets for the Southland filly.
“There’ll be other races she can go in and get a bit of racing into her and a bit of seasoning. I think it’ll do her the world of good.”

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink