Jigsaw confirms piece of Quokka puzzle as Ladbrokes land impressive speedster on six-long winning streak

Fairytale flying machine Jigsaw has added another piece to the Quokka puzzle with his confirmation for the $5 million Ascot feature next month under the Ladbrokes banner. The seven-year-old has hit peak form with six wins from his last six appearances, including a dogged effort to claim last Saturday’s Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield. Included in those successes is another Group 1 in New Zealand’s Railway Stakes (1200m) in January, emphasising the Manhattan Rain gelding’s capacity to travel with effect. Alongside regular rider Logan Bates, who will venture to Perth to keep the partnership intact, the homebred galloper has taken boutique trainer Cindy Alderson on the ride of a lifetime. “Perth is a long way from home, but this horse gives us a heap of reasons to make the trip,” Alderson said. “Jigsaw has a remarkable will to win, and he’s not giving me any indications that it’s going to stop, so the Quokka gives us an incredible opportunity. “We’re thrilled to partner with Ladbrokes; they are great supporters of racing, and we are proud that Jigsaw can fly the flag.” His William Reid win made him very popular with slot holders, and he firmed from $5.50 to $4.50 upon notification that he had gained a slot. With suitors scrambling for his attention, Ladbrokes’ quick action paid dividends. “Cindy’s done an incredible job with this horse to rise through the ranks as a seven-year-old and compete at the top level,” Ladbrokes’ Head of Commercial and Industry Dean Elliott said. “We couldn’t be happier to partner with her as we look to keep the fairytale going. “We knew his win in the Ladbrokes William Reid Stakes would make him popular with slot holders, so we are thankful to Cindy and the team for partnering with us.” Ladbrokes won last year’s race when acquiring local hero Jokers Grin and has completed their imminent slot representation with Dashing Slay ($8) in the Sandgroper and Don Hugo ($2.75f) in the Nullarbor. Newmarket Handicap victor Caballus still holds the call in Quokka markets as the $4 chief elect, while fellow undoubted runners are Rey Magnerio ($6), Jedibeel ($9), Luana Miss ($9), Smooth Chino ($9) and Talkanco ($26). Overpass ($6) remains safe in the betting despite the intention to instead target the T J Smith Stakes (1200m) this year, though he could be scratched and sent to Perth should the forecast for that race be wet. Jimmysstar ($6) is a doubtful starter, while Briasa ($9), Hedged ($11) and Angel Capital ($11) are next in line.