She has taken all before her this campaign, but trainer Neville Parnham declares Kay Cee to be even better ahead of the Listed Belmont Oaks on the weekend.
After winning her first Group 1 in the Kingston Town Classic (1800m) last December, Kay Cee has returned in a blaze of glory with dual winter feature wins.
The gun three-year-old won the Raconteur Stakes (1400m) first-up and backed it up with a second quality performance in the Belmont Guineas (1600m).
In an ominous warning to his rivals, Parnham feels Kay Cee, the raging $1.75 favourite, will justify her short quote and win Saturday’s 2000m event.
“Her work on Tuesday was as good as she has ever worked,” Parnham told The Races WA.
“She had a horse who went out in front of her and she chased it down very quickly and easily.
“She never really came off the bridle and the work was superb.
“She is at her best for Saturday.”
The Belmont Oaks has assembled a field of 11. Kay Cee has drawn barrier four. Jockey Steven Parnham retains the ride.
Chantrea ($3.60), Cambist ($8) and Karijini Aurora ($) sit behind Kay Cee in market order.
Chantrea, a member of Lindsey Smith’s in-form team, has firmed from her opening quote of $5.
The filly is undefeated in four starts, winning her first two races for Grant and Alana Williams before linking up with Smith.
Champion hoop William Pike has elected to stick with Chantrea after combining with Karijini Aurora in the Belmont Guineas.
“It’s obviously her biggest test to date, but she has been ultra-impressive and Willie Pike has elected to stick with her,” said stable representative, Leon Davis.
“It’s a big step-up in class, but on her work and her last couple of starts she should be very competitive.”
Parnham (Neville) is chasing his second Belmont Oaks success after Vulnerable won in 1995.
Steven Parnham can join his brother on the Oaks honour roll after Brad Parnham combined with Journey (2009).
Julio Santarelli