The beginning will be crucial for three-year-old Just Party as he starts his campaign in the Eskimo Prince Stakes at Randwick.

Just Party has often been slow out of the gates, which has sometimes worked against him.

Though he is expected to settle near the back in the Eskimo Prince Stakes (1200m) on Saturday, co-trainer Sterling Alexiou is hopeful that natural growth and development will help offset his slower starts.

“His barrier manners have just let him down a touch, given he quite often settles back and gives himself a fair bit to do,” Alexiou said.

“But he’s got a really good turn of foot and I’m looking forward to seeing where he sits among the better colts heading towards the Randwick Guineas.

“He has always shown good talent and he’s starting to put it together.”

During the spring, Just Party was competitive in strong company, finishing just under a length behind Lady Shenandoah, the subsequent winner of the Flight Stakes, in the Ming Dynasty Quality (1400m). He also placed second in both the Tapp-Craig (1400m) and Callander-Presnell (1600m).

Alexiou believes the horse has physically matured and has been training well ahead of his return.

“He’s got a lot stronger, he’s really good through the shoulders and hindquarters now,” Alexiou said.

“You will see a much more furnished animal at the races and hopefully he has taken that next step in regard to his performance race day.”

Although the 1200m may be a bit short for his best distance and barrier one is not ideal for his slow starts, Alexiou is optimistic.

“He is a horse that appreciates galloping room and he is going to need some luck from there, but he’s going well and he will run very well with good improvement to come.”

All being well, Just Party will follow a traditional Guineas path through the Hobartville Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill on February 22.