Machine Gun Gracie's Impressive Run Earns Sydney Cup Berth
Former Western Australian galloper Machine Gun Gracie has been confirmed as a starter for this year's Sydney Cup (3200m) after a standout performance at Rosehill. The announcement was made on Monday by her new co-trainer, JD Hayes, following her decisive victory in the Group 3 Epona Stakes (1900m) on Saturday.
Transition to Eastern States Success
Previously prepared by Justine Erkelens in WA, Machine Gun Gracie was transferred to the training partnership of Ben, Will, and JD Hayes to advance her career in the Eastern States. The four-year-old mare quickly made an impact, winning by two lengths in her recent race, demonstrating her adaptability and skill on the seaboard.
JD Hayes expressed confidence in her abilities, stating to SEN, "She certainly put out a statement there that she could be the real deal. Really took the step in the right direction and she's got a nice profile behind her, and exciting times ahead." He highlighted her exceptional aerobic capacity and recovery, noting that she worked tirelessly during training sessions in Euroa.
Overcoming Challenges and Setting Records
Hayes pointed out that Machine Gun Gracie faced several obstacles in her first-up run at Flemington, including adapting to clockwise racing in Sydney, a soft track, and a wide barrier with a heavy weight. Despite these challenges, she delivered a dominant display, leading from the front and showcasing a strong racing pattern.
Notably, she recorded the fastest last 200 meters of the meeting on Golden Slipper Day, a significant achievement that underscored her speed and endurance. This performance solidified the decision to target the Sydney Cup, scheduled for April 11, which serves as a key lead-up to the Melbourne Cup later in the year.
Strategic Move to Sydney Cup
The decision to enter Machine Gun Gracie directly into the Sydney Cup, jumping from 1900 meters to 3200 meters, is considered unorthodox but supported by her current form. With a weight of 50kg and residual fitness from two starts in Perth, along with trials and a mile run, Hayes believes she is well-prepared for the longer distance.
"We had a really good discussion with the connections back over in WA and the team here, and we're going to go straight for the Sydney Cup," Hayes explained. This move highlights the trust in her stamina and racing capabilities, positioning her as a contender in one of New South Wales' most prestigious events.
Boosting WA Sire Maschino's Reputation
Machine Gun Gracie's success continues to promote the breeding prowess of WA sire Maschino on a national scale. Hayes mentioned that after her win, agents approached him with offers for other Maschino-bred horses, indicating growing interest in the stallion.
"I think he's a stallion definitely to watch. He looks like he can get a gun," Hayes remarked. This sentiment is reinforced by other Maschino progeny, such as Bonjoy, who won the Saturday's Grandstand Cup (1500m), and sprinter Jokers Grin, who impressed in recent Sydney trials.
The rise of Machine Gun Gracie not only marks a significant milestone in her racing career but also elevates the profile of Western Australian breeding in the competitive Eastern States circuit, setting the stage for an exciting Sydney Cup showdown.
