Melody Belle Eyes Improved Outing In Winx Stakes

Melody Belle horse

Trainer Jamie Richards is banking on a much-improved second up performance for classy Kiwi mare Melody Belle.

The 10-time Group 1 winner finished a disappointing last in the Group 2 Missile Stakes (1200m) when resuming on August 8.

She has made big improvements second up in her previous campaigns, and Richards is expecting a similar pattern when she steps out in Saturday’s Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick.

“”We have just got to put a line through that run, turn the page and get on with it,” Richards said.

“There were a couple of things against her, she was first-up on an unsuitable wet track and got back in a small field and struggled to make ground.

“Her sectionals say she still ran okay and we have been happy with her at home.

“Kerrin (McEvoy) rang after the race and said he should probably have been fourth rather than back last in hindsight.

He said ‘Don’t worry, she ran okay and will improve’. She had a good blow.”

Watch: Melody Belle’s disappointing first up run in the Group 2 Missile Stakes.

Richards is optimistic with the possibility of improving tracks to come in Sydney, as well as hoping for a kind gate to allow her to be ridden more positively.

“I’m pleased with where she is at for the coming week, I think she will be close to the mark and it looks like there is a good spot of weather coming to Sydney and I think that will aid our chances.”

Melody Belle ran over the 1000m on Tuesday morning and pleased connections ahead of Saturday’s task.

“Everyone was happy with her and the weather looks to be improving with no more rain forecast,” Richards said.

“If we could draw a barrier on a better track and see her up in a handy position, that would be ideal.”

Melody Belle is currently an $8.50 chance for Saturday’s Winx Stakes (1400m).

Article originally posted at TheRacingSharks.com.au