Lightning showdown for gifted sprinters

Written by Paul Vettise

High-class stablemates Yes Yes Yes (Rubick) and Nature Strip (Nicconi) are set for a mouth-watering clash in the G1 Lightning S. at Flemington.

Trainer Chris Waller has confirmed the Royal Ascot-bound pair will oppose each other in the 1000 metre dash.

Yes Yes Yes, who will be partnered by Glen Boss, hasn’t raced since he won The Everest and Waller said the colt had come back from a spell in terrific order.

“He was able to spell for four weeks and has had a faultless return to the preparation, including trialling well on January 21, but most pleasing was the preparation he made from that trial, which was evident in a strong piece of work earlier this week.

“I plan to give him another solid piece of fast work in the next few days and he will then travel to Melbourne ahead of a scheduled jump-out on February 7.

“Fortunately, we are able to make use of the Flemington straight for this jump-out and although he has won on the straight course earlier in his career, I feel it is important to further his experience in straight racing as we head toward the G1 Lightning S.”

Waller has yet to decide on the following program for Yes Yes Yes as he heads toward the G1 TJ Smith S. at Randwick on April 4.

“He will be set for Royal Ascot where we look forward to showcasing his immense talent on the international stage,” Waller said.

“I am under no illusion that the Lightning S. will be a tough assignment for him where he is racing below his best distance. However, it bodes as a suitable option for his first-up run and I am sure his class will be evident in his return.”

Nature Strip was electric winning the G1 VRC Classic and, following a spell, was a trial winner at Warwick Farm on January 21.

“He is now a three-time Group 1 winner and also remains unbeaten down the straight at Flemington, which made the Lightning S. the obvious first-up option with James McDonald aboard,” Waller said.

“I have no doubt he is going to prove very tough opposition for Yes Yes Yes in the Lightning and both horses will certainly be tested by the great depth we have in the Australian sprint ranks at the moment.

“I am yet to decide where he will run subsequent to the Lightning, but at this stage he has returned in excellent order, remains very relaxed and continues to mature each preparation which is very positive.

“Like Yes Yes Yes, the owners and I are looking forward to the preparation unfolding and leading us to a possible Royal Ascot path after giving the Australian supporters plenty to see before joining a likely strong contingent to represent our countries abroad.”