Statuario’s win at Caulfield has set the stage for a Derby campaign, with trainers Emma-Lee and David Browne now weighing up their options.
The three-year-old’s victory in the Listed Galilee Series Final (2400m) on Saturday secured him a spot in either the Group 1 South Australian Derby (2500m) or the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m).
David Browne confirmed that the team will assess whether to freshen Statuario up for a Queensland campaign or head to Adelaide with a four-week gap.
“The South Australian Derby looks a nice race for him, if he comes through this well,” Browne said.
Ridden by John Allen, the $1.75 favourite won by 2-¼ lengths, holding off Politely Dun ($12) and Litzdeel ($18).
Having placed third in the Group 2 Alister Clark Stakes (2040m), Statuario handled the trip increase comfortably.
Browne noted, “He did what he needed to do. Hopefully, he continues to improve from here.”