Black is Back

Black Caviar left quarantine, checked in briefly at her Caulfield stables and then made a dramatic departure to a secret location on Wednesday.

The mare is set to undergo a series of intensive veterinary tests this week to determine the extent of muscle injuries revealed after her win in last month's Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Trainer Peter Moody and Black Caviar's owners will shortly decide if the champion will continue her racing career or will go to stud.

As Black Caviar left the Werribee International Horse Centre she appeared in a lively mood, suggesting she has recovered well from any problems suffered during her Royal Ascot run.

Moody Racing assistant trainer Tony Haydon said she was checked briefly at Caulfield on Wednesday.

"She'll be happy to get out into the paddock today and I think she's really looking forward to cutting loose and being a horse," Haydon said.

"She's been at Caulfield for a few hours, they ran their eye over her and then she went to the paddock."

Moody said there were a number of options for Black Caviar's owners.

If she continues to race she may be set for a third consecutive victory in the Group 1 Patinack Farm Classic on November 10 at Flemington.

One option he didn't mention was a trip to Hong Kong for the International Sprint at Sha Tin in December, a race which would earn her a $1 million bonus if she won.

There is also a chance the mare will be retired to begin a breeding career.

Moody also said Black Caviar could be given an extended break ahead of a final autumn campaign.

"We're not sure whether we'll see her in the spring, or whether the owners decide that she goes to the breeding barn or even whether we give her an extended break, forget the spring and come aim her at the autumn and have a finale next year," Moody told TVN.

"The vets will go over her, check her out, and we'll make our decision after we hear from them."

Great stuff, whatever the outcome , all the best. (tu)