Trainer Patrick Payne finds himself in a difficult situation regarding his promising galloper, Buccleuch.

The four-year-old has secured a spot in the Listed Testa Rossa Stakes (1440m) at Caulfield on Sunday. However, he is also the topweight in the Sportsbet Same Race Multi (1600m) scheduled for Mornington the previous day.

Payne generally avoids racing his horses under conditions that are outside their handicap limits, and Buccleuch, rated 86, is set to compete in a benchmark 84 race at Mornington.

Conversely, at Caulfield, Buccleuch, with his 86 rating, will face War Machine, a 109 rater. Under the set-weights and penalties conditions of Sunday’s race, he will receive only 2kg of weight relief.

Buccleuch has demonstrated strong form since undergoing successful surgery for a wind ailment, recording two victories at Sandown over 1400m.

Payne commented that the Toorak Handicap (1600m) at Caulfield on October 10 could be an ideal target for the gelding. Nevertheless, the trainer is concerned that his current rating might be insufficient to gain entry into that prestigious event.

“We had the tie back surgery with him and it’s been very successful,” Payne said.

“We were pleasantly surprised with how it went as he was always a handy horse.”

“He was working really well at home, but you need to see what happens when they go to the races and come under pressure.”

“He’s an 86 horse now and most horses if they get to 80, they don’t fluke it, but it’s going to be difficult for him now.”

“He was entered for the Testa Rossa on Sunday, but I wasn’t that keen to run him out of his handicap, so I’d prefer to go to Mornington and then we’ll look to do something clever after Saturday.”

“The Toorak could be a lovely race, but I think his rating is too low and I hate racing them out of their handicap, but there are some nice Listed, Group 3 races down the track if he puts his hand up.”

Payne believes there is ample opportunity for Buccleuch to ascend to a higher racing class.

To date, Buccleuch has participated in nine races, securing five wins and accumulating just over $300,000 in prize money.

“He’s only a spring four-year-old, he’s still got plenty of time,” Payne stated.

“He’ll be a better a four-year-old in the autumn and again as a five-year-old, so there is no panic from me.”

The Testa Rossa Stakes at Caulfield on Sunday presents an interesting option for Buccleuch, though Mornington offers a potentially more suitable handicap. You can explore the latest racing odds at Australian betting sites.