Trainer Cliff Brown concedes Sepals will face a stern challenge when he lines up in Saturday’s Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield.
Brown, who returned to Melbourne in 2021 after 12 years of Group 1 success in Singapore, is no stranger to the big stage. He came close with The Inferno in the 2021 Manikato Stakes, and now believes Sepals deserves his shot.
The gelding has already claimed a Group 2 and finished fourth in the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m). First-up last month he cruised home by 4½ lengths in a benchmark race, convincing Craig Williams to take the ride.
But Brown admits barrier 16 makes life difficult.
“He looks well and we’re hopeful,” Brown said. “The 1400-metre start at Caulfield is tricky enough, let alone jumping from the near outside gate.”
Brown said Sepals had matured physically and mentally, but Saturday will reveal where he sits against seasoned opposition.