Classy mares have strong Flemington G3 prospects

The well-related mare Epidemic, takes a step up in class and distance to the G3 Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes with the full confidence of her stable at Flemington, Australia, on Tuesday, 6 November.

Epidemic is part of a two-horse challenge in a race in which she is joined by stablemate Savatiano.

A sister to the dual G1 winner and Darley stallion Impending, Epidemic (Damian Lane) established her class winning three-from-three last preparation.

She finished down the track behind stablemate Resin at Caulfield last start after being hampered over the final stages, but is expected to find her form here.

“Epidemic was warming to her task nicely and nearly looked capable of running third before being hampered in the Caulfield race,” said trainer James Cummings.

“She should be capable of running out the seven furlongs although she carries a penalty for a Stakes win last preparation.”

Savatiano (Hugh Bowman) also looked to have run poorly on paper at her last appearance, but again Cummings is content to overlook the performance.

“Savatiano raced a bit flat last start in the Tesio at Moonee Valley. She never really took her rider anywhere he wanted to go,” he said.

“Hopefully that’s a run we can put behind her after she had a little setback two weeks earlier.

“She is jumping out of her skin and looks to be desperate to get out on the park and compete again.”