Siege Of Quebec back on track for Epsom

Co-trainer Adrian Bott says it’s all systems go for Siege Of Quebec in the Group One Epsom Handicap.

Siege Of Quebec has put himself back in contention for the Epsom Handicap a week after his failure in the Theo Marks Stakes.

The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained four-year-old finished last of the seven runners in the Theo Marks in his first start on heavy ground.

On Saturday on a firm track in the Bill Ritchie Handicap at Randwick, Siege Of Quebec ($4.40) has come from midfield to catch the favourite Pierata ($2.90) on the line in a race record 1 minute 21.56 seconds.

“I don’t think I’ve ever walked off a racecourse so disappointed,” Bott said.

“We went in very confident. Unfortunately we had to put it behind us.

“The heavy track wasn’t to his liking and full credit to him on the quick back-up.

“We didn’t have any hesitation in bringing him here. He’s a big tough colt and on Sunday and Monday didn’t look to have taken any harm.

“The Epsom has always been the aim for him.

“It’s great we have been able to get into the race. He can show us what he’s made of.”

Pierata’s trainer Greg Hickman was not disappointed with his charge who missed the Tramway Stakes two weeks ago after the trainer found slight swelling in his leg.

“He got caught three-wide and even he had gone back he was still going to be three-wide,”he said.

“All in all I thought it was a good run. He only got beaten a short head in a race record time.

“He didn’t miss any work so I’m happy.”