Veteran trainer Scott Singleton is writing a compelling redemption story as he returns to familiar territory at Hawkesbury Racecourse, determined to claim the Ladies Day Cup that narrowly escaped his grasp twelve months ago.
Home Ground Advantage
The Singleton name carries significant weight at Hawkesbury, where Scott's father, the legendary John Singleton, established a racing dynasty. This homecoming represents more than just another race meeting—it's a chance to continue the family legacy on hallowed ground.
"There's always something special about racing at Hawkesbury," Singleton revealed. "The memories run deep here, and bringing a quality runner back to where it all began adds an extra layer of significance to the day."
The Contender: Lady Of Monte
Singleton pins his redemption hopes on Lady Of Monte, a talented mare who has shown impressive form leading into Thursday's feature race. The five-year-old has been working brilliantly at the stable's Wyong base, suggesting she's peaking at the perfect moment.
"Her recent trackwork has been outstanding," Singleton enthused. "She's settled into a beautiful rhythm, and when she's in that zone, she's capable of producing something special. The 1300-metre distance suits her perfectly."
Learning From History
Last year's Ladies Day Cup remains fresh in Singleton's memory, where his runner fought valiantly but fell just short of victory. That experience has shaped his approach to this year's campaign.
"We've learned valuable lessons from previous attempts," Singleton acknowledged. "The track conditions, the competition, the preparation—we've fine-tuned everything. Lady Of Monte arrives in peak condition, and we're confident she can handle whatever the race throws at her."
Competitive Field Looms
The Ladies Day Cup has attracted a quality field, with several metropolitan-class runners making the trip to Hawkesbury. Singleton respects the competition but remains bullish about his mare's chances.
"There are some genuine contenders in this field, no question," he stated. "But we're not here to make up the numbers. Lady Of Monte has the class and the heart to match it with the best of them."
A Family Affair
The Singleton racing operation has become a true family business, with Scott's daughter, leading jockey Mikayla Weir, potentially taking the ride. This adds another emotional layer to the homecoming narrative.
"Having family involved makes these moments even more meaningful," Singleton reflected. "When you're working with people you love, chasing victories at tracks that hold so much history, it reminds you why we're in this game."
As the Hawkesbury community prepares for one of its premier racing events, all eyes will be on the local hero seeking to complete his unfinished business and add another chapter to the Singleton racing story.
