Following Schwarz’s breakthrough Group 1 win, attention now shifts to his next steps ahead of the breeding season, with a possible trip to England on the cards.
Co-trainer John O’Shea revealed that a decision on the Zoustar four-year-old’s future would ultimately be made by Rosemont Stud, but suggested one final run could be in the pipeline before retirement.
The $1 million Group 1 Kingsford Smith Cup (1300m) in Brisbane on May 31 is a leading local option. Alternatively, the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot in June also looms.
O’Shea said, “He could run in the BTC sprint, or we could consider Ascot after a better preparation down the straight.”
While Schwarz’s only attempt at Flemington’s straight resulted in a seventh-place finish, O’Shea remains hopeful of better results at Ascot, noting the value of learning from past experiences.
Schwarz, who has six wins from 12 starts, is set for stud duties this year, with O’Shea confident he will be well-patronised given his impressive pedigree.