Tommy Berry’s immediate reaction to Soild Gold’s fifth in last week’s Queensland Derby was disappointment, but it has changed to confidence as she backs up in Saturday’s Queensland Oaks.
The Roger James and Robert Wellwood-trained filly was favourite against the boys last week, but she is out to an $11 chance against he own sex after looking like she didn’t run out the 2400m trip.
“I would be lying if I didn’t say I was very disappointed coming back after the Derby,” Berry said.
“She did a bit of work early from the barrier, and then we got going from the 600m and she towed a couple into the race and they went past her.
“I thought she would have been better than that.
“But Roger is a great trainer of stayers, and when he wanted to back her up on Monday, it made me confident.
“I know he wouldn’t be doing that unless she came through the run really well.”
Solid Gold trade an outside draw for an inside one, which possibly becomes gate one in the Oaks.
“We got a good draw, which was very important,” Berry said. “She should get an easier run and I think we will see the real Solid Gold on the weekend.
“I was confident before the Derby and if you can put that run out of your mind, she is right in this race on Saturday.
“I think the 2200m will suit her and I just have to get her into the race at the right time.
“As I said, it would have been easier for them to go home after the Derby than back up, so that gives me confidence that she is going to improve – a lot.
“I think the Rough Habit Stakes is the right form with a similar run, she will be strong.”
Berry has a good book of rides and will look to get Boomtown Boss into the Stradbroke via the Moreton Cup. A win will give him an exemption from the ballot and even though he only beat one home in the saddle in the BRC Sprint last start, Berry said it was no indication of is ability.
“We just had no luck when he was trucking into the race last time,” Berry said. “He had the blinkers on for the first time and reacted really well to them.
“We just got shut out of the race if we get a clear run on the weekend he is right in the race.”
Berry can also make a case for Hyperbolic in the Magic Millions National Classic after she was touched out by Pinito at Listed level over the same trip last start.
“I see Hyperbolic is $16, that seems the wrong price seeing they went to the line together last time,” Berry said. “I think she can improve from that last run.
“I have good rides all day and I’m looking forward to Chris Waller’s two-year-old Glenorchy, which I think will appreciate the extra trip.”
