Williams keen on Connie

There’s no Pride Of Jenni to contend with, but Concord Connie (C0ntributer) still faces stiff opposition in Saturday’s Gr.1 Empire Rose Stakes at Flemington.

Chris Waller’s four-time Group One winner Lady Shenandoah is certain to start a pronounced favourite in the 1600-metre contest, while in-form mares Surfin’ Bird and Unleeshing will likely make their presence felt.

Contributer filly Concord Connie – who ran third in the Gr.2 Tristarc Stakes at Caulfield last start – will face her sternest test in the Empire Rose, but jockey Craig Williams, who replaces Jett Stanley, is confident the Charlotte Littlefield-trained mare will measure up.

“It’s going to be a cracking lineup, full of Group One winners already,” Williams said.

“Lady Shenandoah is exposed – she’s won four Group Ones.

“Concord Connie has to stand up. It’s weight-for-age, it’s Flemington, it’s a mile, and there’s no hiding spots.

“I feel Concord Connie brings the X-factor – she’s the new horse on the scene.

“She runs so well at Flemington, and her last performance (at Caulfield)... she put the writing on the wall that she can put her hand up to be at this level.

“It would great for Concord Connie and Charlotte to get their first Group 1 on Saturday.”

Williams said the Empire Rose now looks significantly different without Pride Of Jenni – a two-time winner of race – engaged. The multiple Group One winner is still not 100 per cent after developing a slight case of cellulitis ahead of the October 17 Gr.1 King Charles III Stakes in Sydney.

“It changes the demographic of the race, and I think you will find a lot of others might think about running in the race now,” Williams said.