Time has proven a valuable ally for Air Assault, who is poised to surge past $1 million in prizemoney with a win in the Listed Ballarat Cup (2000m) on Saturday.

Trainer Andrew Gluyas says the nine-time winner has finally matured and learned how to race, returning for his second attempt at the Ballarat feature after finishing seventh behind Berkeley Square last year.

Although yet to win beyond 1800m, Air Assault has twice placed over 2000m and was also placed in the Group 1 South Australian Derby at 2500m.

“He ran well in the Vase (at Moonee Valley) as a three-year-old and he’s been placed at Group 1 level, so he has the capacity to run a good 2000 metres, no doubt,” Gluyas said.

He said Air Assault had grown out of his tendency to over-race and now settles far better.

This year’s preparation has been lighter than his 2023 campaign, with the gelding running sixth in the Cranbourne Cup after striking traffic.

Air Assault’s lead-up included victories in the Gawler Cup (1500m) and Listed John Letts Stakes (1600m).

Gluyas said the stable will regroup after Saturday, target a light autumn, and return for Adelaide’s carnival races next year.

“He’s been a fantastic horse and has taken us on a good ride,” Gluyas said.