David Vandyke is banking on the sheer talent of Gypsy Goddess (NZ) (Tarzino) to help her overcome a distance drop when she returns to her home state for an important winter carnival stepping stone.
After fine performances to finish third in the Gr.1 Vinery Stud Stakes (1850m) and runner-up in the Gr.1 ATC Australian Oaks (2400m) in Sydney, the filly is being readied for an assault on the Gr.1 Queensland Oaks (2200m) at Eagle Farm in June, via Saturday’s Listed Gold Coast Bracelet (1800m).
“Our mission is obviously to try to win the Queensland Oaks,” Vandyke said.
“She has done everything but win a Group One, so that’s where we’re aiming towards.
“She’s done well since she has been back home and it will be nice to be playing on our home ground for the winter.”
Vandyke has taken the blinkers off Gypsy Goddess and says they will revert to riding her conservatively after going forward in the Australian Oaks.
While she will need luck from barrier 13 and the ability to readjust to the shorter journey, Vandyke, like punters who have backed the filly into even-money favouritism, expect her class to shine through.
“Quality can take a horse a long way and that’s what I am hoping will help her to win Saturday,” he said.
