Phillip Stokes is facing a dilemma over whether to run Hucklebuck in Saturday’s Queensland Guineas or save him for the Stradbroke Handicap.
Hucklebuck has been paid up for the Group Two Queensland Guineas (1400m) but after the release of first acceptances for Saturday week’s Stradbroke on Wednesday, Hucklebuck is safely in the field at number 14 in the ballot.
Stokes said he had a bit to think about given he initially figured Hucklebuck would have to run in the Guineas and win to get into the Stradbroke field.
Hucklebuck has also drawn barrier 15 for Saturday’s Eagle Farm race which has a capacity field of 18 plus five emergencies.
He would come into gate 11 if the reserves don’t start.
“He’s got a run in the Stradbroke so do we run on Saturday and hope we get in (from the barrier draw), or just scratch him and go to the Stradbroke? I’m still thinking about that,” Stokes said.
Stokes will speak with Hucklebuck’s owner and study a speed map for the Guineas before deciding whether the gelding runs in the $350,000 race against his own age.
Hucklebuck raced keenly when he resumed from a let-up in the Group Three Fred Best Classic (1350m) on May 17 at Doomben, finishing fourth after leading.
He is unbeaten in two second-up starts including a 1-1/4 length success in the Group Three C S Hayes Stakes (1400m) at Flemington in February.
Stokes said Hucklebuck had taken good improvement out of his first run in Brisbane.
“We’re happy with the horse,” Stokes said.
“He’s done well since his first-up run and his second-up record is very good.”