WODONGA trainer Brian Cox says he has no point to prove with flying filly Sumakaray tomorrow.
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The exciting three-year-old, beaten just once in four starts, will again tackle city company in the $100,000 Chandler Macleod Handicap (1000 metres) at Moonee Valley.
But Cox isn’t chasing revenge after his new stable star finished unplaced at Flemington on Oaks Day in her only city start to date.
“There’s no point to prove,” Cox said yesterday.
“Little things just didn’t go right last time but we’ve got our fingers crossed and hopefully they do this time.
“She’s very good at the moment.
“She’s happy and looks well.
“We’re pleased.
“Hopefully everything goes right on the day.”
Sumakaray suffered lacerations to both hind legs during the Oaks Day run, with jockey Luke Nolen informing stewards the filly may have come to the end of her preparation after his ride.
Cox disagreed, saying at the time that Sumakaray simply didn’t handle the Flemington straight for the first time.
His view was vindicated three weeks later when Sumakaray scored a five-length win in her next start on Wodonga Cup day.
Apprentice jockey John Kissick, who rode Sumakaray that day, retains the mount in tomorrow’s race.
Cox hoped a weight advantage would help the filly.
“Johnny gets to claim his three kilos, which is a big plus,” Cox said.
“I think the top weight is giving us seven kilograms.
“If she runs like she did last time we’re in with a big chance.”
Sumakaray’s rise has been a rapid one.
The young filly comfortably won the $22,500 Jack Maher Classic on debut in July, then demolished her rivals at Seymour, before faltering in Melbourne in a strong field.
“When you start winning races, there’s no longer races in the country that suit you so you’ve got to go to Melbourne,” Cox said.
Stablemates Full Hand and Chinzia have also accepted for runs at Moonee Valley tomorrow.