Global Weekly Preview: Winx takes centre stage

Never be afraid of one horse, the old saying goes, and I suspect that applies even if you are coming up against a horse attempting her 11th consecutive win.

In any case, Godolphin's in-form Hauraki is going to put that theory to the test in Saturday's G1 Colgate Optic White Stakes at Randwick, Sydney, as indeed is his John O'Shea-trained stablemate It's Somewhat.

Both will face Australia's current reigning champion Winx, the outstanding daughter of Darley stallion Street Cry.

The last time Winx suffered defeat was when she finished 2nd in Randwick's Australian Oaks on 11 April last year. The 2,400m surely found her out that day, but that is no disgrace for the most brilliant mare since Makybe Diva and Black Caviar.

Winx's record stands at 14 wins from 20 starts. She is a formidable rival for Hauraki and the six others in opposition.

On the same card, Godolphin have great prospects of winning the G2 Hill Stakes with Hartnell, who has never raced better in his 3 campaigns in Australia.

Hartnell had plenty up his sleeve when winning the G2 Chelmsford Stakes in the absence of Winx, who defected because of very soft ground.

This time, Hartnell faces a field of worthy contenders, the majority which he has beaten previously. Stablemate Magic Hurricane is a danger while Tavago is due to strike form.

So, Australia provides most interest for Godolphin fans this weekend, but in America, Eoin Harty sends Innovative Idea for the G3 Locust Grove Stakes at Churchill Downs, seeking a hat-trick of wins.