Holt will Aidan abet Longstocking despite no apprentice weight relief

LIAM Birchley has dismissed suggestions Missy Longstocking might be vulnerable today piloted by apprentice Aidan Holt in a non-claiming race.

Jockey Damian Browne guides Missy Longstocking to victory in the Thoroughbred Club Stakes at Caulfield in October. Picture: C...

TRAINER Liam Birchley has dismissed suggestions Missy Longstocking might be vulnerable today piloted by apprentice Aidan Holt in a non-claiming race, declaring the youngster the best junior to ride in Brisbane for a decade.

Birchley continues to pick the eyes out of suitable set weights races for Missy Longstocking, who chases her sixth stakes win in today's Listed Mode Stakes at Doomben.

The Sequalo filly has built the impressive record of eight wins in 12 starts and Birchley can take a big chunk of the credit for that imposing record.

She bolted home at Group 3 level during the Melbourne carnival when the set weights and penalties conditions meant she was by far and away the best weighted horse in the race.

The same scenario applies today.

Jockey Damian Browne guides Missy Longstocking to victory in the Thoroughbred Club Stakes at Caulfield in October. Picture: Colleen Petch

Missy Longstocking has 13 handicapper rating points to spare over her nearest rival (Enquare). In simple terms, that means she would be giving every rival at least 6.5kg in a true handicap.

Despite that massive advantage, some have suggested she might be vulnerable with Holt unable to use his claim in a race where the draw could prove tricky.

"He's obviously where he is (second) on the premiership ladder for a reason," Birchley said.

"I think he's the best (apprentice) to come along since Michael Rodd and Zac Purton.

"It's only a matter of time before he gets a big opportunity.

"Weight is an issue and that will ultimately determine how long he lasts, but he's got the right temperament and ability. He's just a really good horseman."

Birchley doesn't rate the barrier an issue, with Killcareless' scratching robbing the race of some pace yesterday.

Trainer Liam Birchley expects Missy Longstocking to win at Doomben. Picture: Colleen Petch

The trainer also shrugged off any hangover concerns for Missy Longstocking coming back from Melbourne.

"She only had two runs down there, so she was hardly overtaxed," he said.

"I expect her to win."

Enquare and Global Dream mixed it with Missy Longstocking at level weights during the winter and shape as the main dangers, along with improving filly Splendora, who is chasing a fourth straight win.

Enquare twice placed behind Missy Longstocking at 1200m during the winter carnival, while Global Dream finished ahead of her in the Sires Produce at 1350m.