Moir Stakes 2016: People’s champ Buffering flying Queensland flag

AS Queensland footy fans face the reality of drawing a blank in this weekend’s grand final action, old boy Buffering could lift their flagging spirits in Friday night’s Moir Stakes.

Buffering sets the Doomben track alight in a recent trial at Doomben. Picture: Darren England

AS Queensland footy fans face the reality of drawing a blank in this weekend’s grand final action, ageless warrior Buffering is set to lift their spirits as he chases more history in Friday night’s Moir Stakes.

Trainer Rob Heathcote is sure Buffering can give the state’s sports fans something to cheer about by winning an unprecedented fourth Moir.

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The nine-year-old has become a state treasure after ­accumulating $7.2 million in earnings in a career that is set to stretch into its eighth ­season.

“There is definitely a sense now that every time he runs we are representing Queensland,” Heathcote said.

“On Magic Millions day it really hit home. Queenslanders have really embraced him.

“It’s something that has grown. I’ve really noticed it in the last 18 months. His popularity has really surprised me.

“Perhaps it’s because he’s the last remaining link to Black Caviar, or maybe it’s because he was the underdog for so long.

“(Part-owner) Bruce Harry used to joke about him being the people’s horse but it’s true now.

“This week I’ve had calls from Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, everywhere wanting to talk about this horse.

‘‘It’s just amazing.’’

Queensland treasure Buffering scores easily in the MM Sprint in January. Picture: Grant Peters, Trackside Photography

Heathcote and the almost disbelieving group of owners understand the finishing line of the great horse’s career is drawing nearer.

After going to a new high by claiming the Al Quoz Sprint in Dubai this year, Buffering turned in a rare shocker when he was tailed off behind Chautauqua at Sha Tin in May, prompting talk of retirement.

“Without a doubt there’s been a number of times when we thought it was all over,” Heathcote said. “We just have to take each run and preparation as they come along. It’s a cliche, but the horse will tell us when he’s had enough.

“I’m happy with the draw.

‘‘Hopefully we can come across, sit outside Redzel and control the speed.

“It’s a salivating race yet again and I’ve had the pleasure of being in a few of those with this horse.”

Heathcote has also tipped Hopfgarten to run a big race at Flemington on Sunday, ­declaring “he is flying”.

We love you, Buff: Part-owner Chris Lord gives Buffering a kiss. Picture: Darren England

SWORD’S OMISSION HELPS ROSE’S TASK

QUEENSLAND’S chances of winning a major over this long weekend received a huge boost on Thursday with the scratching of hot favourite Omei Sword from the Flight Stakes.

The Sunshine Coast-based David Vandyke-trained filly Yankee Rose is now a $1.85 favourite for the Group 1 ­feature.

SIGNOFF CUP CAMPAIGN FALLS BY WAYSIDE

TRAINER Darren Weir has been forced to abort the Melbourne Cup campaign of quality stayer Signoff.

Weir said Signoff has a niggling injury and heat at the back of his knee, and the trainer has told stewards the horse’s spring campaign is over.

“It’s not serious but it’s just enough to say you have to stop,” Weir said.

Originally published as Moir Stakes 2016: People’s champ Buffering flying Queensland flag