Gerald Ryan has competed in numerous editions of the Champagne Stakes without securing victory, yet with the undefeated colt Southend, he feels confident about finally succeeding.
His strongest performance was achieved by Williamsburg in 2022, placing third behind She’s Extreme, whereas Flying Snitzel secured a brave fourth position trailing Pierro in 2012.
Each of those horses triumphed in the Baillieu (1400m) prior to tackling the Group 1 challenge, and Southend enters Saturday’s key Randwick event fresh off a recent victory in that identical contest.
The trainer, currently operating alongside Sterling Alexiou, notes that he was captivated by the young horse right from their initial inspection as a yearling, so it came as little shock to witness him setting strong early standards during training.
“I have been excited about him ever since we bought him at the sales,” Ryan said.
“He has been so straightforward, great natured, easy to get on with. And he’s a lovely horse to look at. He reminds me of Lonhro.
“There’s a photo when he won (the Baillieu) going past the post and he dead-set looks like Lonhro. Just his colour and his action and his ears.”
Southend marked the inaugural Australian stakes success for his sire, Darley’s two-time champion miler Palace Pier, courtesy of his Baillieu success.
This came after an initial triumph in the Paul Perry (1300m) at Newcastle on March 6, with Ryan observing that the colt has kept progressing impressively toward his ultimate target.
“This horse was never going to go to the Sires’ (Produce Stakes) He was always going to those two runs and if he was alright, to the Champagne,” he said.
“He has come out of his last win terrific. He looks well. He’s enjoying life, and he’s a straightforward little horse.”
Dylan Gibbons, who has guided Southend to victory in both his outings, will keep the mount for Randwick next Saturday.
The Champagne Stakes (1600m) stands as one of two Group 1 events scheduled that day, alongside the All Aged Stakes (1400m), poised to feature the comeback of popular star Fangirl.
Racing fans can explore the top Australian betting sites for competitive odds on the Champagne Stakes.