Young trainer Luke Fernie hopes the gap between his filly Rumour Says and Snowdome and Amelia’s Jewel is not an insurmountable hurdle to overcame at Ascot on Saturday.
Snowdome, a brilliant winner of the 3YO Classic (1000m) two weeks ago and boom filly Amelia’s Jewel, resuming after her unbeaten juvenile season, are the dominant favourites.
Rumour Says ($6) currently holds the third line of betting with Tabtouch behind the Simon Miller-trained Amelia’s Jewel ($2.30) and Snowdome ($2.35) from the Neville Parnham stable.
Fernie agrees Amelia’s Jewel and Snowdome will be extremely hard to beat in the Drummond Golf-Belgravia Stakes (1200m) but believes the $125,000 Listed event is not a race in two.
He says Rumour Says, a Deep field filly, has come on in leaps and bounds after her third placing in the 3YO Classic, her first run back after an unbeaten two-year-old season at Belmont Park.
Going into the race without a trial, Rumour Says, followed Snowdome in the three-wide running lane, but when the sprint went on in earnest, the classy colt proved a touch too sharp at the finish.
Fernie, who also has Man Crushed engaged in the Belgravia Stakes, said Rumour Says is right where he wants her.
“I’m really happy with her and she’s in a good head space,” Fernie told Tabradio.
“She went to the races and had a proper blowout, the others had fitness on her.
“She settled quite well over the 1000m the other day and I reckon ridden a bit colder when there is good tempo in the race, I think 1200m will probably be her go.
“I’m really happy with the improvement she’s taken since that run as well.”
In a field of eight Belgravia Stakes starters, Rumour Says has drawn barrier five.
Clint Johnston-Porter reclaims the mount after illness prevented riding her in the 3YO Classic.
Outside of Rumour Says is stable mate Man Crush. Paul Harvey combines with the Manhattan Rain gelding from gate six.
A Crystal Slipper (1100m) winner last season, Man Crush faded to second behind Fly Away Home at his previous start nearly a month back.
“He sort of flies under the radar a little bit,” Fernie said.
“Last start he was 1000m up to 1400m which is not ideal for any horse really.
“I’m looking forward to some of the bigger races coming up.
‘The Fairetha is probably his main aim and then onto the Guineas.
“I have a decent opinion of him and he’s going quite well.
“He’s no superstar but wants to be at the races.
“He puts his best foot forward every time and if you have a stable full of them everyone will be happy.”
Man Crush is currently $17 with Tabtouch.
Julio Santarelli