Sass Appeal targets Group 1 races in Australian spring campaign

Trainer Danny O’Brien has mapped an ambitious spring program for the mare Sass Appeal, the So You Think filly who returns to Flemington on Saturday in the VRC Membership Renewals Open (1410 m). After a five‑start career that includes four consecutive wins and a Group 2 victory, the campaign is aimed at three Group 1 events – the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, the Toorak Handicap and the Empire Rose Stakes. O’Brien noted the 1410 m race offers a suitable weight advantage, with the mare carrying 53 kg versus a higher load in the Group 3 Aurie’s Star Handicap. A further preparatory run is planned at Caulfield in a Benchmark 100 over 1400 m before stepping up to elite company.