Following a pair of strong showings in Group races, Genesis Runner is poised to secure a stakes victory, and this weekend presents an ideal chance.

The Yulong-owned three-year-old colt is an early favourite for the Listed Dulcify Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on Saturday. Connections chose to extend his distance for this race rather than competing in last weekend’s Golden Rose (1400m).

He enters the Dulcify off a fourth-place finish behind Persian Wonder in the Ming Dynasty Quality (1400m). For this outing, he will wear blinkers for the first time, with co-trainer Will Freedman eager to see him convert his consistent performances into a win.

“He was good last time, but he needs to get a run on the board soon at that level,” Freedman stated. “He can’t consistently be a bridesmaid, so there is a bit of pressure on him for that. But he’s come through the run very well. He should be a very good chance.”

Should Genesis Runner meet expectations, he is on track for a traditional path towards the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) on October 24, with the Gloaming Stakes (1800m) two weeks prior serving as a stepping stone.

Freedman indicated that the colt’s recent performances suggest he will benefit from an increased distance.

“Over 1400 he’s been left a bit flat-footed. He’s looking like a horse who wants to get over further and further,” he commented.

Genesis Runner, a $575,000 purchase from last year’s Inglis Easter Sale, is by the prominent US sire Gun Runner.

As of Wednesday, he was the $2.80 favourite for the Dulcify Stakes and will be ridden by Chad Schofield from barrier four.

Genesis Runner is well-supported in the Australian betting sites market for the Dulcify Stakes.