The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained Tom Kitten will look to put his Caulfield setback behind him when he resumes in Saturday’s Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m).

The Godolphin-owned gelding was withdrawn from the Memsie Stakes after striking his head in the barriers, but has since completed practice and a trial at Mornington.

Trainer Sam Freedman admitted the trial was messy, with jockey Ben Melham unprepared when the gates opened, but said the horse had responded well to remedial work.

“He’s always been busy in the gates… hopefully it’s behind him,” Freedman said.

Tom Kitten worked strongly at Mornington this week, though Freedman warned the gelding still lacks race fitness.
“I would say he’s going to need it, but I think he can run well,” he said.
“It’s a stepping stone and not his Grand Final.”

His spring program is expected to progress to the Turnbull Stakes or Might And Power, with the Cox Plate the ultimate goal.