Emma-Lee Browne is confident Statuario is ready for the Group One South Australian Derby (2500m) at Morphettville on Saturday.

Browne, who trains alongside her husband David, has had Adelaide in mind for the last-start Galilee Series Final winner.

“I’m very, very happy with him,” Browne said.
“He’s come through it good. Trialled up super at Pakenham on Tuesday. So, all set for next week.”

Rather than race in the Group 3 Chairman’s Handicap (2000m) the previous week, Browne believes a 2400m win with a trial between runs is the right approach for Statuario. He finished second in a 1200m Pakenham heat on April 22.

Browne’s prayers were answered on Tuesday when Statuario drew barrier three, with John Allen booked to ride. Allen has won four of the past nine SA Derbies.

“It was really, really good last time over the 2400 (metres),” Browne said. “If we can do that again, that’d be nice.”

With Statuario a $3.60 favourite, the Brownes are hopeful of their best chance at a Group One win.

“This has been the target so hopefully he runs to his best and he should be in the finish.”