John Sargent takes a shine to Ipswich

Queensland Derby contender Shine Tak Star will have his final lead-up in a midweek race at Ipswich.

Trainer John Sargent has opted to give Shine Tak Star his final hit-out for the Derby on June 10 in a $50,000 2150m-race for three-year-olds on Wednesday.

Shine Tak Star created a good impression in his first Queensland start when he won at the Gold Coast in restricted class on May 17.

He sat four and five deep for a good part of the race but was too strong for Queensland Oaks hopeful Sharp Speedo over 1800m.

Sargent has a good opinion of Shine Tak Star whose only other win was at Kembla Grange over the Derby distance of 2400m.

The gelding is by noted sire of stayers High Chaparral and has now earned $42,095 prize money.

“It is usually enough to make the field for the Derby but we want to make certain on Wednesday,” Sargent said.

“He went around in the Australian Derby but got bogged down on a heavy track and was well beaten.”

“Shine Tak Star’s win at the Gold Coast was good because I am told it is a turning track making it hard to sit deep and still win. But he was very strong at the finish under 59kg.”

Robbie Fradd, who rode for the horse’s owners in Hong Kong, is expected to retain the ride.