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Racing returns to Rosehill Gardens this Saturday after a six-week summer renovation of the course proper ahead of a 10-race card and a feature Black Type event.
The Listed $200,000 James Squire January Cup is the feature race on the program and has attracted a field of 13 runners chasing Stakes success.
Naval College for Warwick Farm trainer Annabel Neasham and jockey Jett Stanley is the $2.50 TAB favourite (in form $3.60) ahead of Luncies ($5) trained by Kris Lees and ridden by reigning Everest champion jockey Sam Clipperton.
Next in betting is Baby Rider ($6) for Warwick Farm trainer Bjorn Baker with Zac Lloyd aboard.
The Rosehill Gardens track renovation started immediately after the last meeting on Saturday 2 December and involved a full coring and top dressing of the entire course proper.
Australian Turf Club Head of Racing and Wagering, James Ross said the six-week break and renovation during the summer months was essential for preparations heading towards the Sydney Autumn Carnival.
"The continuing quality of our Summer Cup Series is pleasing with a strong renewal of the [James Squire] January Cup shaping nicely to a strong conclusion in the Australia Day Cup at Warwick Farm," Mr Ross said.
"The return to racing has been enhanced by the way Rosehill Gardens course proper has responded to the annual renovation over the past six weeks, which has been assisted by ideal growing conditions and plenty of natural rainfall.
"Having the track in peak condition sets up Rosehill Gardens for the late summer and into the autumn and as we head towards several of the early two-year-old and pathway races to the $5 million Golden Slipper."
Second acceptances for the 2024 $5 million Group 1-Golden Slipper close on Tuesday, 16 January at 2pm.
