Bjorn Baker is optimistic about the upcoming challenge for his horse, Perfumist, in the prestigious $10 million Golden Eagle at Royal Randwick on October 7, 2023. With a favorable draw in gate one, Baker hopes to minimize luck’s role in the race and believes this could signal a turnaround in fortune for his stable.
Last year’s race was a painful experience for Baker when his star mare, Stefi Magnetica, appeared to be on the brink of victory. Under jockey Zac Lloyd, she surged towards a gap at the 100-meter mark, only for it to close abruptly, resulting in a near-fall at the 50-meter mark. Ultimately, she finished fifth, while international competitors Lake Forest and Lazzat took the top two spots. Both jockeys faced significant penalties for careless riding.
Reflecting on that moment, Baker expressed his confidence that Stefi Magnetica “would have won” had the circumstances been different. When asked if he felt due for a stroke of good luck in this year’s Golden Eagle, he remarked, “Well, we got luck in the Stradbroke [prior to that], so maybe that was karma. But you’ve got to look forward, not back, and that’s racing. You can’t get the perfect run all the time. Fingers crossed, it’s a tough race, and hopefully, Perfumist can run up to her best.”
Perfumist’s Recent Performance
Perfumist is known for her forward-running style, which positions her well to make her own luck in the race, particularly coming from the rails barrier. The horse is currently listed at $16 with TAB, and Baker is hopeful she can deliver a strong performance after a series of solid runs.
She showcased her capabilities last preparation with four consecutive wins, although her initial two races this season did not meet expectations. However, she rebounded impressively, finishing a close fourth in her last outing and then clocking a swift time to secure victory at Randwick in a benchmark 94 race. In her most recent race, she was the best of the rest behind Idle Flyer in the Group 3 Angst Stakes, also run over the same distance.
As the countdown to the Golden Eagle continues, Baker remains focused on the task ahead, hoping that the favorable draw will provide Perfumist with the opportunity she needs to excel. The stakes are high in a race that promises to be fiercely competitive, with all eyes on this talented mare as she looks to make her mark in one of the season’s marquee events.
