Races

Mathews Pair In Line To Shed Maiden Status In Kalgoorlie

Monaco Rose has raced on seven occasions without a win, but there have been recent signs to suggest she is close to breaking her maiden status.

The first signal came at York in March when under Karnup co trainers, Geoff Durrant and Jason Miller, she ran a creditable third to Reveille.

Reveille, a High Chaparral filly, looks a smart type and franked the form with two wins and two placings from her next four starts at Ascot

Last week at Kalgoorlie, when second-up for Brett Mathews, Monaco Rose ran fourth, but she could have finished closer if not for bad luck.

The Trade Fair filly received a knock at the top of the straight, but recovered and attacked the line strongly when fourth to Willy Wagtail.

“She should have won if she didn’t get that check,” Mathews said.

“It came at a vital moment of the race when she was building momentum.

“But I was happy how she came on again and finished off.

“I think the step up from 1400m to the mile will also suit her.”

Monaco Rose has drawn barrier five in the Chaff City Maiden (1600m). Clint Johnston-Porter has been booked to take the ride.

Mathews is also optimistic Ronboy can strike first-up for the stable when he contests the Kunine Produce Maiden (1300m).

Previously with Geoff Durrant and Jason Miller, Ronboy is looking to bounce back after a last-start eighth at Pinjarra on May 11.

However; if the four-year-old can replicate his previous run when third to Kimbo’s Girl at Ascot, he looms a chance to atone.

The form reference strong with Kimbo’s Girl bolting in by over four lengths after posting a second Ascot victory earlier this month.

“His form on paper suggest he should be hard to beat,” Mathews said.

“He has settled in well and doing all the right things.

“It’s not the strongest of maidens.

“But first up I would like to see how he goes.”