Goulburn Horseman Matthew Dale Eyes Wagga Success with Quartet of Chances
Goulburn-based horse trainer Matthew Dale is preparing to unleash a formidable team of four runners at this Sunday’s Wagga race meeting, signalling his intent to make a significant impact ahead of the highly anticipated two-day Wagga carnival. Dale is keen to build winning momentum at the track, and his quartet of contenders boasts a promising blend of experience and untapped potential.
The day’s proceedings for Dale will commence with Thegirlfromprague lining up in the Lime Leaf Catering Country Boosted Maiden Plate over 1400 metres. Piloted by jockey Louise Day, this filly is one Dale holds in high regard.
Thegirlfromprague: A Promising Filly
“She ran a good race when finishing second at Goulburn at her second start,” Dale commented. “She followed that up with a fourth at Goulburn and she looks to have the talent to be thereabouts on Sunday.” Her previous performances suggest a filly with the tenacity and ability to compete strongly in this maiden event.
Louise Day will also be in the saddle for Dale’s second runner, Brucey, who is set to contest the Bush & Campbell Accountants Maiden Handicap (1200m). This gelding, a son of Unite And Conquer, made his debut at the Sapphire Coast as the firm $1.65 favourite. While he finished fourth on that occasion, beaten just over five lengths behind the winner Falcon Gold, Dale believes there’s more to come.
Brucey: Looking to Bounce Back
“He won his trial at Goulburn before his first start and while he was disappointing at the Sapphire Coast he has done well since then, and I’m happy with him going into Sunday’s race,” Dale stated. His trial form indicates a horse capable of winning, and the stable is optimistic that he can translate that potential into a winning performance at Wagga.
The stable’s new recruit, Sunset Royale, will carry Dale’s hopes in the Kristopher Graydon Jewellers Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, with Pierre Boudvillain taking the reins. Previously under the care of prominent trainers Anthony and Sam Freedman, Sunset Royale has had three starts to date. Her most notable performance was a fourth-place finish at Pakenham on her second career outing. In her most recent start on February 20th, she finished sixth at Terang.
Sunset Royale: A New Beginning
“She’s a nice filly and she’s had the three Victorian runs,” Dale remarked. “I’m looking forward to seeing how she goes for us on Sunday and it looks a nice race to kick her off in.” This maiden plate presents an opportune debut for Sunset Royale under Dale’s tutelage, offering a chance for her to showcase her abilities in a new environment.
Dale’s final contender for the Wagga meeting is Group Chat, who will again be partnered by Louise Day in the Logistics Country Boosted Benchmark 58 Handicap (1200m). This mare possesses a known affinity for the Wagga track, having secured her sole career win in a maiden event there.
Group Chat: Aiming for Peak Form
“She’s got her share of ability, and her only win was in maiden grade at Wagga,” Dale confirmed. “If she can find her best form then she’ll run a good race.” The key for Group Chat will be recapturing the form that saw her break her maiden at this very track, and if she can achieve that, she shapes up as a genuine contender in this competitive handicap.
With a diverse lineup of runners across different maiden and handicap races, Matthew Dale appears well-positioned to enjoy a successful day at Wagga, setting a positive tone as the major carnival approaches.
