Having built his reputation on reviving worn-down gallopers, Joe Pride says the challenge of transforming tried horses still drives him.
Recent Group 1 stars Ceolwulf, Think About It and Private Eye have showcased his ability with lightly raced talent.
But it was lifting Vision And Power and Sacred Choice to elite success that first established his credentials.
“Honestly, there is nothing I enjoy better than someone ringing me up and saying, can you give this horse a go? Something that was maybe good early and has trained off. I love that challenge,” Pride said.
“I’ve never been able to afford to buy really expensive yearlings, so the next option for me is taking on a horse that has had some challenges but has good ability.
“I’d love to think our system is as good as any at getting the best out of them.”
His newest project is Golden Mile, the Godolphin six-year-old who returned from a brief stud career and has struggled for form, including an unplaced run in the Russell Balding Stakes.
Pride expects fitness and blinkers to lift him in Saturday’s The Hunter (1300m) at Newcastle.
“He’s a good horse… I’ve got a racehorse right there ready to go,” he said.