Trainer Andrew Noblet is hopeful that talented sprinter Sistine Demon (Excites-Famous Painter, by Peintre Celebre) can overcome his wide barrier when he makes his Gr1 debut in the Goodwood Handicap (1200m) at Morphettville on Saturday, reports horseracing.com.au.
Sistine Demon was favourite for the Goodwood earlier in the week but his quote has drifted slightly since drawing wide in barrier 20.
Noblet was understandably less than enthusiastic about the outside post at first, but after further analysis does not believe that it rules his horse out of the race. “It looked pretty terrible when I first saw the field and saw the number 20 next to his name,” Noblet said.
“Having a good look at it last night, it might not be as bad as it looks. He has tremendous gate speed and he gets into his stride pretty quickly, so we won’t ride him much different and we will see how we go.”
Sistine Demon has established himself as one of the most progressive horses in the country, winning six of his last 7 starts including the Listed Super Saturday Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on 8 March and the Gr3 Victoria Handicap (1400m) at Caulfield on 19 April, when romping home by 6-lengths.
Noblet said the 4YO had come out of that race in good shape and was expecting another bold showing on Saturday.
“He has had a good space between runs, he is dropping back to the 1200, he is in good order and he is nice and fresh.” He added, “He will run really well, the barrier draw is a question mark, but if the track plays like it has been then he is one of the chances.”
