Trainer Clinton McDonald opted for a full race day experience at Sandown with Australian Guineas favourite Angel Capital instead of a jump-out at Cranbourne.

Arriving 90 minutes before the exhibition gallop at Sandown’s Wednesday meeting, Angel Capital was visibly energetic before the workout with stablemate Acid Wash. Ridden by Ben Melham, the Yulong-owned colt narrowly edged out Acid Wash at the end of the gallop.

“It was fantastic work,” McDonald said. “He needed a strong gallop because he had just done too well since his first-up run.”

McDonald felt the race day environment, with the noise and action, gave Angel Capital the right conditions for the workout.

“He had a nice sweat before the gallop. He was up on his toes, but the work was very slick,” McDonald added.

Angel Capital won first-up in the Group 2 Autumn Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 8 and is the favourite for the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday week.

McDonald had considered a jump-out at Cranbourne but felt the Sandown gallop provided more benefit.

“I think he’s got more out of this,” McDonald said. “It takes the juice out of him with the float ride, and this will be his main piece of work leading into the Guineas.”

Angel Capital, a $400,000 purchase by Harry Angel, is a half-brother to Senor Toba and Berkeley Square. He is the latest high-profile purchase by Yulong Stud, aiming to add another potential stallion to their roster.

“We’re very grateful for Yulong to get on board and buy such a lovely colt,” McDonald said. “Now it’s up to us to get the job done at Group 1 level.”

McDonald is also eyeing the Group 1 All-Star Mile at Flemington on March 8 for Angel Capital, depending on his performance in the Australian Guineas.