James Cummings is confident the race and track conditions set up for emerging star Colette to replicate her first-up performance in the Group One Chipping Norton Stakes.

The mare snuck under the guard of punters when she cruised to victory as a $12 chance in the Apollo Stakes two weeks ago.

She meets a similar field at Randwick on Saturday and with the track again set to be rain-affected, trainer James Cummings sees no reason Colette can’t assert her dominance.

“Track and weather forecasts suggest she will have similar conditions to those she enjoyed in her impressive first-up victory,” Cummings said.

“She meets similar opposition on Saturday, she is fit and healthy, and steps up to the mile.”

“We are hopeful of a repeat performance.”

Bookmakers have taken few risks with Colette, marking her a $3.30 second pick with TAB fixed odds on Friday, behind only Caulfield Cup winner Verry Elleegant ($2.60), who will be out to exact revenge for her Apollo Stakes defeat.

Godolphin have selected the Chipping Norton as a campaign starting point for stable warrior Avilius, who has not raced since finishing fifth in the Sandown Classic in November.

Like Colette, the seven-year-old also enjoys soft conditions and Cummings says he continues to show a zest for competition.

“We are looking forward to his return to racing. His latest barrier trial suggested he still has plenty to offer and he has generally run well first-up,” he said.

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au

The post Colette ready to replicate form in Chipping Norton Stakes first appeared on Just Horse Racing.