Trainer Matt Cumani would welcome a pace that is not too demanding in the South Australian Derby.
The gelding Single Choice is set to compete in the Group 1 feature over 2518m at Morphettville this Saturday, arriving with victories in two of his last three appearances.
Three starts ago, he triumphed over 1800m in Group 2 grade during the Autumn Classic at Caulfield, and in his latest effort, Single Choice claimed the Listed Galilee Series Final (2400m) at Caulfield on April 11.
Single Choice, a gelding by the speedy sire Anders, inherits his staying power from his dam Sebring Sally, who secured her maiden win at 1200m but also prevailed at 2100m and finished fourth in a Queensland Oaks (2400m).
Although he succeeded at 2400m in his previous run, Cumani noted he would have preferred a quicker pace in that event, particularly considering the increased distance this Saturday.
“He’s got the form on the board, but what he hasn’t had is a true test at 2400 or 2500 metres,” Cumani said.
“The Galilee Series Final was meant to be that, but he got pretty easy sectionals up front.
“It was a beautiful ride by Jamie Mott, and we thought that might happen.
“So, technically it was a win, and we were happy to take the win at the time, but we didn’t get that true test at a mile-and-a-half.”
Drawn in gate five with Jamie Mott back aboard Single Choice, Cumani hopes the Derby unfolds at an unhurried rhythm once more.
Cumani recognises that a leisurely Derby pace might favour Single Choice, yet he also desires that a brisker tempo does not hinder him.
“It is quite possible that we may get that slower type of race run in Adelaide as well which will suit him, but I’m hoping a fast tempo will suit him as well and that is something we will find out,” Cumani said.
“Jamie Mott is riding him again, and he was quite keen to go over and ride him which I’m quite pleased with also as he rode him beautifully at Caulfield.”
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