Trainer Joe Pride is gearing up for a significant test of the promising Godolphin filly, Taxation, as she competes in the Calerie Life Sprint at Rosehill on October 11, 2023. Following his recent victory in the Spring Champion Stakes with Attica, Pride is confident in Taxation’s abilities and is taking a bold step by entering her in a Benchmark 72 race instead of lower grades.
Taxation, a three-year-old, made a remarkable debut earlier this month, winning a maiden race at Hawkesbury as the favourite. Pride believes that such quality horses deserve the opportunity to compete at higher levels. He stated, “I’ve never minded doing that when I’ve got horses that have the quality. If you think a horse is on a trajectory to being a black type horse, it’s a bit different. I don’t mind chancing my arm and finding out; you can always come back.”
With this approach, Pride is keen to evaluate Taxation’s potential, especially as he scratched her from a Class 1 race at Hawkesbury to challenge seasoned rivals in the upcoming sprint. He noted that the autumn season would be a suitable time for Taxation, and establishing her benchmark now is crucial.
Pride’s confidence in Taxation is underscored by her lineage; she is the first foal of Amercement, a Group 3 winner. When reviewing the horses sent to his stable by Godolphin, Taxation immediately caught his eye. As the race approaches, all eyes will be on her performance, which could signal her readiness for greater challenges ahead.
