Moir Stakes squeeze could be godsend for Ability

Ben Dorries - Thursday September 28

Robert Smerdon reckons it might prove to be a blessing in disguise that his exciting sprinter Ability will miss the cut for the Group I Moir Stakes on Friday night.

Ability looks certain to be squeezed out of the Moir Stakes but Robert Smerdon reckons it could be for the best

With Ability the fourth emergency for the Moir, Smerdon has activated Plan B to head to the Le Pine Funerals Handicap (1100m) at Caulfield on Sunday with the son of Reward For Effort.

Ability, a $5.50 chance on Sportsbet, will carry 60.5kg and start from the second widest barrier in the 16-horse field on Sunday.

But Smerdon, who wants to use the race as a springboard to the Group II Schillaci Stakes at Caulfield on October 14, isn't fazed.

''Missing the Moir might be the best thing to happen to us, because to be honest I thought we were no chance of winning that race," Smerdon said.

"Yes the barrier isn't ideal on Sunday because it dictates we will have to go back further than we probably wanted.

"But I don't think it will have as big an impact as you think, given my horse's racing pattern and the way the race will be run.

"I think we will be very competitive and it could turn out to be the best thing that has happened missing the Moir."

Ability, not seen since winning the Group III Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Sandown in August, has been a new horse since being gelded.

Gone are his former traits of charging through the bridle and being his own worst enemy in his races.

Ability has now won four in a row and Smerdon has nominated him for the rich sprint Group I double of the Manikato Stakes and Darley Classic.

However Smerdon admits he is yet to be convinced Ability can perform at the highest level this spring.

It is why one of his first main missions is the Schillaci Stakes, when many of the country's best sprinters will be in Sydney for The Everest.

"Ability's form is still winter form and he has got to make the step up at this time of year," Smerdon said.

"The Schillaci will be run for the same money and same status as it normally is, yet many of the best sprinters won't be in Melbourne that day.

"I have nommed Ability for some big Group I races but his form between now and then will decide if he turns up."

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