Racing
Charlton ‘Backs in Silver Eagle winner
Group 1 winner out to upset star mare and claim Eagle double
The decision to move the $10 million Golden Eagle from Rosehill to Randwick was not without its detractors, but Tom Charlton isn't complaining about it this year.
His classy four-year-old Linebacker, who he prepares in partnership with John O'Shea, has achieved his best results at Sydney's premier track.
The Super Seth gelding won the $1 million Silver Eagle (1300m) at Randwick at his most recent start, which was his first win since the Group 1 Randwick Guineas (1600m) in March, and Charlton said the venue should help bring out the best in Linebacker.
"His best form is at Randwick, he won the Randwick Guineas, which is not too dissimilar to the Golden Eagle, and obviously he won last start over 1300," Charlton said.
"Being at Randwick we're very happy about and now we just need a few things to go our way."
Linebacker is considered one of the biggest threats to Autumn Glow, who headlines the field for the 17-horse Golden Eagle.
Chris Waller's unbeaten mare drew the middle alley, while Linebacker came up with gate five. Japanese Group 1 winner Panja Tower will start from Linebacker's immediate inside in four.
Linebacker ran up to his outstanding trial at Randwick on October 7, when he defeated Overpass and Ka Ying Rising, with a brilliant 2-1/2-length win in the Silver Eagle (1300m) October 18 and Charlton expects to see an even better product this weekend.
"He was a little bit fresh before the race, which was good to see, so there would be no doubt there should be a bit of improvement and getting to a trip where he should be most effective," Charlton said.
"Everyone seems so happy with him at home and we're looking for to it."
Zac Lloyd has ridden Linebacker at his past four starts, including the Randwick Guineas and Silver Eagle wins, and retains the ride in Saturday's event.
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