Another Doncaster trip is mapped out ahead of big autumn targets.
After suffering a heartbreaking loss in the Fairy Bridge Stakes at Tipperary on Sunday, Matilda Picotte will look to replicate her experience at Doncaster.
Twelve months ago, Kieran Cotter's front-runner came in second in the Group Three race and went on to win the Sceptre Fillies' Stakes at Town Moor a few weeks later.
And following their star filly's most recent near-miss, where she was headed in the shadow of the post following a valiant attempt to make all, connections will be praying it's a case of lightning striking twice.
"She returned a little tired, but she's healthy and well," Cotter stated. That final 110 yards just kills her, considering she finished second in that race the previous year.
Wow!
Matilda Picotte blows away her rivals in the @JRA_WorldRacing Sceptre Fillies' Stakes at @DoncasterRaces under @oismurphy… pic.twitter.com/Gf3Kmtg7zA
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) September 17, 2023
"Seeing her chinned again was heartbreaking, and she made some significant mistakes there. It's just the way she runs; it wasn't her fault.
"The strategy is the same as it was last year; we're going to the Sceptre Stakes in Doncaster, and maybe some rain will help her out."
"She has proven form at the track and we will try to get a win into her again and go from there."
After winning the Sceptre Stakes with ease in 2023, Matilda Picotte went on to win the seven-furlong Challenge Stakes at Newmarket later in the fall with another successful UK raid.
The swift daughter of Sioux Nation is also considering pursuing that Group Two prize once more. However, if things go as planned in South Yorkshire, Cotter might be inclined to take a chance and go to Paris-Longchamp for the Prix de la Foret, which is the only open-age Group One in Europe over her ideal trip.
"Doncaster is a race that fits in well with the schedule from last year and she is in the Foret, so depending on how things go, there are a few options open to her," Cotter continued.
"She also won the Challenge Stakes in Newmarket; although it wouldn't coincide with a trip to France, it is an option.
"We hope that she will perform well once she returns to running only seven furlongs. Few horses can keep up with her gallop through the seven, but they also can't let her escape. We have a lot to be excited about."
