By Mike Dillon
Laurie Laxon thought of Champagne last night.
First the champion mare stabled in the third box on the left in his Cambridge complex, then the variety which produces bubble and cheer via a glass.
Laxon had just been told the stakemoney for the Dubai World Cup had overnight been increased from $US4 million to $US 5 million.
The trainer is keen to have Champagne in the Dubai World Cup on March 29.
"It's staggering to think a race can be increased by $US1 million ($NZ1.88)," said Laxon.
The winning stake for the Cup is now $US3 million ($NZ5.66 million).
Champagne will resume in the 1400m $100,000 Waikato Draught Sprint at Te Rapa on February 13 and will then take in the Australian Cup at Flemington.
Laxon has yet to confirm a jockey for Champagne's autumn racing. Greg Hall, who won the Mackinnon Stakes on the mare, was recently sidelined with a bone crack in the neck area and there is doubt about him being fit.
As you would expect Laxon's phone has been running hot with jockeys offering to help.
"Greg Childs is very keen to get back on her," said Laxon. "We'll see."
The magnificent Krug champagne sets you back $300 a time, but the Dubai winning stake will buy you 18,893 bottles.
Now that's something to really think about.
Horse Racing: Big stake hike for Dubai Cup
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.