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  • Queen's On Again Off Again Status Now Neither

    Wednesday, 17th March 2021

    Odds-makers and the racing public have been left in ubiquitous no-man’s land when it comes to champion WA mare Arcadia Queen. One of the best performers raced by Bob and Sandra Peters, the daughter of Pierro (Lonhro) was given until the eleventh hour to pass a veterinary test before last Saturday’s All-Star Mile but had the pin pulled due to a reported hoof injury. Any joy her growing support base felt at Tuesday’s news that her autumn carnival has been resurrected has been somewhat dampened by the realisation that she is likely to succumb to the perils of Sydney’s inclement March weather. According to racing.com, Bob Peters, no doubt relieved after a strong Bendigo galloped by Arcadia Queen, confirmed a float trip to Sydney for Saturday’s Gr1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m). If the forecast persistent rain stays away – sadly the weather gurus have been on the money of late – the 5YO mare is likely to forego her association with regular rider William Pike who has other commitments at Mornington on Saturday. "He's got bookings at Mornington and we don't know if we are going to start or not, [with Arcadia Queen]" declared Peters. "If you worked on the weather forecast, she probably won't be starting. If we had to wait, we've got the Emancipation the following week." The back-up option is a mares-only affair for Arcadia Queen who was superb in the spring (see below).