October
AugustNo-brainer
Touching as their concern for Michelle Payne’s health may be, I reckon Prince of Penzance’s owners can probably leave decisions on her riding future up to her.
She’s a big girl, and anyway she’s not going to be able to ride without the support of Racing Victoria doctors, who naturally will be conservative in their assessment of her ability to do so safely.
The fact is that one inspired ride turned Prince of Penzance from a middle-of-the-road handicapper into a Melbourne Cup winner.
I’ve got my doubts about whether there are many wins in his future, with or without Michelle.
His autumn run over 1600 metres at set weights and penalties was encouraging, but he did get beaten by Tonopah, who then ran fifth in the Swan Hill Cup.
Alpine Eagle was the only other genuine group horse in the race and he was nowhere near his best.
Is Prince of Penzance up to weight-for-age, or carrying a cup winner’s weight in handicaps? Time will tell. Regardless, a fit Michelle Payne should have first refusal on the ride for life. End of story.
Cremorne (Vic)