While the Queensland summer Sunshine still burns brightly, several southerners are eyeing off the warmth.
And with the Brisbane winter carnival fast approaching, several stables are starting to plot and plan their raids.
Tasmanian stables are no different.
Connections of exciting three-year-olds Ignatius and Ideal Bliss are considering the Queensland blue riband classics.
“Connections of both pacers have indicated the Queensland winter carnival as a distinct possibility, there’s plenty of water to go under the bridge but the interest is there and both will acquit themselves well.” TasRacing Form Analyst Jamie Cockshutt said.
Ignatius, the fastest two-year-old pacer last season with his 1:51.3 clocking in the Gr.1 $150,000 Breeders Challenge Final at TABCORP Park, Menangle will focus on the Queensland Derby on July 21.
A winner of 7 of his 8 starts, the Roll With Joe gelding is prepared by Todd Rattray while currently on loan to his brother James (of Beautide fame) in Sydney.
Ignatius looked sharp winning a trial at Menangle today (Tuesday) in a time of 1:53.4 and will start on Friday night in the Allied Express – National Distribution Pace.
Ideal Bliss, a classy daughter of American Ideal is a proven feature race winner of the tie honoured Evicus Final at Hobart last June.
Prepared by astute conditioner Paul Hill, the filly has won 5 of her 7 starts to date including both races this season.
Ideal Bliss is being primed for the Gr.3 $30,000 Tasmanian Oaks at Hobart on March 18.
On Sunday, Ideal Bliss starts in the $15,000 3yo Fillies Championship at Hobart where she starts from the inside gate with champion reinsman Gavin Lang booked to drive.
The $75,540 Queensland Oaks is scheduled for July 14.
Chris Barsby | RQ Web News | February 28 | Photo credit: NSWHRC