A determined win at Glorious Goodwood has boosted the chances of UK galloper Seagulls Eleven heading to Sydney for the $10 million Golden Eagle.
Trainer Hugo Palmer confirmed plans are in motion after the gelding landed the Group 3 Thoroughbred Stakes (1609m) with a strong front-running display.
Already proven on the world stage at last year’s Breeders’ Cup, Palmer believes Seagulls Eleven’s adaptability makes him a serious prospect for the Australian spring.
“He has taken us all around the world and I don’t think we are done yet,” Palmer said.
“The Golden Eagle in Sydney has already been mentioned and why not? It’s a $10 million dollar race. Where can you say that in England?”
Owned by ex-Brighton & Hove Albion footballers, Seagulls Eleven may have one more UK start—potentially in the City Of York or Celebration Mile—before heading down under.
He’s yet to feature in early Golden Eagle markets, led by Autumn Glow ($3.50) and Lady Shenandoah ($4.50) with new betting sites.