Trainer Tom Charlton anticipates a solid comeback for Queensland Derby winner Maison Louis at Randwick, while his team ponders a return journey northward this winter.
A year earlier, the Super Seth gelding advanced from a maiden victory at Goulburn on his second outing to claiming the Group 1 Derby on his seventh start, then had mixed results through the spring.
His strongest effort among four appearances last preparation came with a second placing in the Hill Stakes second-up against the tough Lindermann, leading his connections to provide the gelding with a lengthy spell and target a return late in autumn.
“His form just tailed off a bit after starting really well,” Charlton said of Maison Louis’ spring preparation.
“We gave him a bit of time, so he will resume on Saturday, and he can work towards races over a bit further in Sydney and maybe Queensland.
He has a bit of weight so we’re just looking for a positive first-up run and he may go to a Gosford Cup or something like that second-up.”
In Saturday’s First Australian Imperial Force Handicap (1500m), Maison Louis carries 60.5kg and faces the challenge of barrier 12.
Stablemate Girl About Town may not confirm her spot in the HMAS Sydney Handicap (1100m), as her team also eyes an easier assignment on the Kensington track come Monday.
Yet the appeal of a handy inside gate at Randwick exists, and Charlton plans to assess both fields prior to deciding.
A Zousain filly, Girl About Town has impressed in trials, taking her latest heat with ease, and should perform strongly regardless of her starting point.
“She has shown good ability,” he said.
“I’m sure there will be plenty in (Saturday’s) race with similar trials or race performances, but when she does run, she will run well.”
Charlton also sends out stayer King Pedro for his freshen-up in the Battle of the Dardanelles Handicap (1600m), as consistent mare Polymnia steps down from stakes placings into the Anzac Day Cup (1800m).
“Polymnia is knocking on the door. She’s racing very well, and it looks a good grade of race for her,” Charlton said.
Dylan Gibbons is confirmed aboard all four of Charlton’s Randwick participants.
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