STELLAR EXPRESS

On December 22nd, (dirt trial 1050m: 1-1-1) the horse stumbled slightly at the start but quickly recovered to take the lead and maintained it throughout. Last run winner four weeks ago over the same distance, showing excellent form with a dominant front-running victory by one and a half lengths. A recent barrier trial indicated improvement. Moving up in class this time with a 13lb weight reduction, however, drawing a poor barrier is unfavorable. Despite having won three times at this distance previously and respectable sectionals against comparable horses, the jockey change to Andrea Atzeni may be significant – the new jockey has a good understanding of the horse's temperament and the trainer expresses confidence.