Deltason’s preparation hasn’t been smooth, but trainer Meryl Hayley is optimistic the promising juvenile can finish the season on a high when he tackles the Group 3 WA Sires Produce Stakes (1400m) at Ascot on Saturday.

After missing out on the Perth Stakes (1100m) due to a late scratching and narrowly missing a spot in the Karrakatta Plate (1200m), Deltason heads into his final run of the season with winning form. He broke his maiden in dominant style on April 30, winning by 3 ¼ lengths over 1400m.

Hayley is confident the gelding is suited to longer distances, as he always appeared to need more than the 1000m he raced over on debut.

“We were really looking forward to the 1400m,” Hayley said. “We were just praying there were no more barrier disasters with the horse. Every time he goes in the gates and comes out of them, we’re happy.”

Though Deltason has drawn barrier seven of nine for the Sires, Hayley isn’t concerned.

“He’ll settle a couple of pairs back and hopefully be hitting the line,” she said. “He’s fit as a fiddle, and it’s a matter of keeping him mentally happy.”

After the Sires, Deltason will enjoy a well-earned break, with plans to return as a three-year-old for feature races, including the WA Guineas (1600m).

Hayley considers Just Too Fly and Fila Mia as the main threats in the Sires.