Vandyke looks to Australian Cup with Philia

By Glenn Davis

Trainer David Vandyke admits he’s not getting his hopes up with his star mare Philia in the Group 1 Australian Cup at Flemington on Saturday.

Philia steps up in distance to 2000 metres for the first time this campaign in the Australian Cup after finishing fourth to multiple Group 1-winner Treasurethe Moment in last week’s Group 2 Sunline Stakes at Caulfield.

While proud of Philia’s performances during her Melbourne sojourn, Vandyke conceded it’s been a frustrating time in Melbourne.

“It’s been more frustrating than anything with her in Melbourne,” Vandyke said.

“She should have won the Matron Stakes at Flemington when she was held up between the 350 and 100 metres and she would have run third in the Sunline had she not wobbled around the turn.

“She got lost on the corner but finished off the race well and is looking for further.

“She’s been more of a frustration than anything else.”

Vandyke conceded he was concerned with the quick seven-day back-up with Philia in the Australian Cup.

“It’s a big step up in class, distance and backing up seven days after her last race is bit of a concern,” Vandyke said.

“I think 2000 metres will suit her this week and it’s about her best distance.

“She’s never backed up so we’re not going into the race thinking she’s going to win.”

Vandyke has booked Daniel Stackhouse to ride Philia in her Melbourne swansong, replacing Jamie Mott who was aboard in both the Matron and Sunline Stakes.

Vandyke has never had a starter in the Australian Cup even going back to the days of his former champion Alligator Blood.

“I’ve never had a runner in this race and we’re hoping she’ll run well,” he said.

Vandyke will call stumps on Philia’s Melbourne campaign after the Australian Cup and is undecided about heading into the Queensland Racing Carnival this winter.

Philia was one of the stars of last year’s winter carnival and won four straight races including the Listed Princess Stakes and Group 2 The Roses before running in the Group 1 Queensland Oaks at Eagle Farm.

In early Australian Cup markets, Philia is a $51 chance behind $3.60 favourite Birdman.