What will go a long way to helping Russell Stewart realise his plans will be the absence of boom juvenile Bustling who for the most part had the measure of Perth's babies this year.
While Stewart extends Golden Kathleen's campaign for at least one more go before spelling, Bustling is already in the paddock and looking at new targets interstate.
A winner of the Karrakatta Plate-WA Sires double, Bustling has been sold to eastern states interests and will continue his racing career with Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr in Melbourne.
Bought for a reportedly whopping $2 million, Bustling has been locked away as the first slot holder in the $20 million The Everest (1200m) at Randwick on October 14.
A bargain buy at $3000; Golden Kathleen burst onto the scene and created a big impression on debut at Bunbury when she defeated This'll Show Ya by 2 ¾ lengths.
Next in the Listed Gimcrack Stakes (1100m) she stormed home like a comet from the back of the field to finish 1 ½ lengths astern of Siren Assault before running into the might of Bustling.
Like the rest of her opponents, Golden Kathleen was no match for Bustling in the Karrakatta Plate (1200m) when sixth before getting a little closer in the WA Sires' (1400m) to finish runner-up.
In the absence of Bustling, Stewart says Golden Kathleen should be a hard horse to beat when taking her part in the Celebrate WA Raceday Saturday 1st June Plate (1300m).
"It was dependent on her after the Sires', but she bounced out of it like a prized boxer," Stewart said to The Races WA.
"Her run in the Gimcrack was huge.
"There will plenty of miles left in the tank even after Saturday, but she'll be going out.
"It absolutely looks a winnable race for her.
"She went really well the other day, but just ran into a freak.
"Steven Parnham is really happy with her and she's just steaming off the track.
"She is absolutely bouncing and there's no Bustling.
"Not to be arrogant I would be disappointed if she didn't win.
"I think she's got a bit on them."
After $2.90 was the Tabtouch opening price, Golden Kathleen has firmed further into $2.25.
The daughter of Leonardo da Hinchi is favourite with Rainline at $4 and Big Shots $5.50.
Against 13 rivals, Golden Kathleen has drawn barrier five. Steven Parnham retains the mount.
