Dry track a key to Emphasis improvement

Trainer Richie Stephenson believes he has learned a valuable lesson after Emphasis turned in the worst run of his career three weeks ago.

Emphasis had an excellent record at Doomben before running last beaten nearly 19 lengths in an open handicap.

The track was rated a heavy 10 and Stephenson says that was the reason for the out-of-character run.

Emphasis gets a chance at redemption in the Listed Brisbane Handicap (1600m) at Doomben on Saturday.

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“They called the races off after five races. We were in the first race and I wish they had called it off before that,” he said.

“Emphasis just didn’t handle it at all. At least we learned to stay away from really heavy tracks now.”

Stephenson has brought Emphasis back from the 2200m to 1600m but does not see that as s problem.

“He has had five goes at the Doomben 1600 metres and never been out of a place,” he said.

“I have always had an opinion on him and would love him to win a black-type race.”