It’s common in racing for male horses to come out and win after they have been gelded.
Trainer Mark Bairstow is banking on that adage when Reflectance tackles the Listed Pinjarra Classic (1300m) on Sunday.
Bairstow lost patience with Reflectance and opted for the ultimate gear change after he was unplaced in last January’s Mandurah Cup (1409m).
“He was out of control and wasn’t concentrating on what he was doing” said Bairstow on TAB Radio.
“But he was still able to show glimpses after running second to Black Heart Bart one day.
“He was doing little bits and pieces without doing anything together.
“There is no doubt he has a heap of talent but it’s a matter of getting everything in order.”
Bairstow says it’s too early to declare the operation a success but pointed to encouraging signs.
His confidence was boosted after Reflectance crossed the line for an easy 1000m trial win.
“Even though it was a slow time it was a fantastic trial,” said Bairstow.
“He has really come on since the gelding.
“He is bucking his brands off and is pretty happy with himself.
“I think he has improved by at least three lengths.”
Reflectance posted four wins and five placings from his 21 starts under the guidance of John Thompson in New South Wales.
He has yet to breakthrough for Bairstow but ran his best race when runner up to Black Heart Bart (1200m) at Ascot in December.
The son of Blackfriars is in sparkling form and after commencing his current campaign as a maiden he has strung together five wins.
His tally includes three features in the Carbine Club Of WA Stakes (1400m), the Summer Scorcher (1000m) and Cyril Flower Stakes.
Black Heart Bart and stable mate Dawn Approach form a potent two-pronged attack for in-form trainer, Vaughn Sigley.
Dawn Approach scored a winning hatrick but had his colours lowered when fifth to Black Heart Bart in the Cyril Flower Stakes.
Despite the hot competition Bairstow is not prepared to write off Reflectance and says he is not daunted by the challenge.
“I might be being a bit optimistic but I really think the horse is flying,” said Bairstow.
“If you go through the form he has beaten a lot of the horses in the race.
“I think he will be competitive in the field.”
Bairstow has entrusted Troy Turner to handle Reflectance for the first time.
The experienced hoop is chasing his third win in the race and second in succession.
He was aboard Watermans Bay last year and Kame’s Hope in 2003.
Julio Santarelli
www.rwwa.com.au