Kerrin McEvoy is intensifying his return from a foot injury with a strong lineup of seven mounts at Rosehill Gardens, along with prospects of Group 1 mounts in the near future.
The three-time Melbourne Cup victor was out of action for six weeks following a foot fracture during a barrier trial incident on January 15, making a comeback with a single ride last Saturday prior to increasing his workload with four rides at Warwick Farm during the week.
He faces another four bookings at the Kembla Grange Classic event on Friday before tackling Saturday’s Coolmore Classic program, and he reports feeling in top shape and ready.
“The foot feels good and it’s nice to be back and have a few rides on Saturday,” McEvoy said.
“I’ve had a few trials as well, and I’ve been able to get enough loading in the gym and on the bike. I have been swimming a lot, but there is nothing like race fitness.”
Among McEvoy’s Rosehill engagements is Signor Tortoni, trained by Ron Quinton, in the Maurice McCarten Stakes (1100m). The four-year-old has secured promotion to Group level after triumphs in his last two outings in lesser company, with his most recent success over the same track and distance on Saturday.
“Ron said he’s been in good order since, and he looks a good chance for me,” McEvoy said.
“Ron has been patient. He’s let him race into this type of company and to get there, he has been winning along the way.
“It’s nice to see him in good form and I’m looking forward to riding him.”
McEvoy will also steer Caulfield Cup placegetter River Of Stars in the Sky High Stakes (2000m). Although her top performances come at 2400m and beyond, she should benefit from the longer trip compared to her 1400m return.
“You can expect a more forward run getting up to that trip. She is second-up with a trial in between,” McEvoy said.
“She was second in the Caulfield Cup last prep, so she is one to keep an eye on with improvement to come.”
McEvoy lacks a mount in the feature event of the day, the Group 1 Coolmore Classic (1500m), but he is set for multiple high-profile races soon, such as the Golden Slipper (1200m) and The Galaxy (1100m) in a fortnight.
“I’ve been confirmed for (2025 Golden Slipper winner) Marhoona in The Galaxy, which is a nice pick up for me,” he said.
“I’m hoping to get on one of Chris Waller’s in the Doncaster Mile, and I’m also riding one of his in the Slipper, Hidrix.
“I’m looking forward to getting a nice win in the coming weeks.”
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