Republic to launch Golden Slipper bid

Trainer John Thompson (centre) is hoping Republic can start a Slipper campaign at Warwick Farm.

John Thompson hopes he has a treat in store when Republic launches an ambitious bid to qualify for the Golden Slipper.

The Randwick trainer rarely has a runner by Snitzel so he is looking forward to gauging how his second two-year-old colt from the prolific stallion measures up at Warwick Farm on Wednesday.

Bobbio finished midfield on debut at Rosehill last month, and now Republic gets his chance to impress in the Maiden Plate (1200m) after three encouraging barrier trials.

Raced by breeders Canning Downs Stud, Republic ran fifth in his first trial behind eventual Breeders’ Plate winner Performer, the $7 second elect for the Group One $3.5 million Golden Slipper (1200m) at Rosehill on March 24.

“There’s some form around him. He’ll probably need a run but he seems pretty professional,” Thompson said.

“He’s a big, strong boy. He’ll get back a bit, but he’ll run well.”

“He’s in there (Slipper). You’ve got to be in it.”

The trainer is rapt to have Snitzel stock in his team.

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“I’ve only had a couple. I don’t have the big money owners to have those sorts of horses,” he said.

Thompson also welcomes back promising gelding Primitivo at Wednesday’s meeting, as the three-year-old warms up for an autumn campaign.

Primitivo will be having his third start in a Maiden Handicap (1200m) after two minor placings in his first preparation including third in September’s Group Three Spring Stakes (1600m) at Newcastle.

“He went well in a stakes race but we put him away because he was a bit immature,” Thompson said.

“He’s had one easy trial, we’ve kept him nice and fresh for this race.”

Plans for Primitivo will be clarified after his comeback.

“There’s nice mile races like the Randwick Guineas or Carbine Club type races through the carnival if he’s up to that level,” Thompson said.

He is still weighing up whether to race three-year-old filly Excellent Design in the Group Two Light Fingers Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on Saturday, or a Benchmark 75 Handicap over the same trip at Canterbury the night before.

“The Light Fingers looks like a strong race. She’s talented but it would be a big task,” Thompson said.