Defending T J Smith Stakes champion Briasa represents Tyler Schiller’s top Group One mount during the first day of The Championships at Randwick, though he believes his pair of additional rides are being overlooked.
The skilled rider also teams up with Steparty ($19) for Paul Preusker in the Doncaster Mile (1600m) plus Dezignation ($151), prepared by Matt Smith, in the ATC Australian Derby (2400m), viewing each as potential shock winners.
Even though listed as the longest-priced runner in the Derby lineup, Dezignation rallied strongly to end up fifth behind this Saturday’s opponent Storm Leopard ($5) during the Tulloch Stakes (2000m), and unlike several rivals, he has already succeeded over the distance.
In the preparatory event, Schiller was aboard the gelding for the initial occasion and came away with a positive view.
“He sneaks in off a really good run in the Tulloch,” Schiller said.
“He got back and was taken off the bridle a long way from home, and he stayed on super strong. He just needed a bit further, which he is going to get this weekend.
“As long as he backs up, he’s going to have a really good chance, and he’s got a lovely barrier compared to his outside barrier the other day.
“If it’s a good staying test, he is going to be in the finish.”
Similarly, as attention in the Doncaster Mile centers largely on star filly Sheza Alibi, Steparty has attracted little notice.
The five-year-old, who has secured multiple Group 1 placings, has ventured to Sydney on prior occasions, such as his second-place effort in the 2024 The Ingham (1600m) around the Doncaster track.
After securing back-to-back wins in Tasmania during February, Steparty heads into the weekend highlight following a narrow fifth to Tom Kitten in the All-Star Mile (1600m) at Flemington and has secured a handy draw from gate six for a low-energy trip.
“He’s a really nice horse. He’s got a great attitude and he’s another one flying under the radar,” Schiller said.
“He got beaten a length and a bit in the All-Star Mile off a tough, wide run, and he’s going as good as ever.
“Fingers crossed, barrier six is a lovely barrier in the Doncaster. Hopefully he can bounce and get a bit of cover somewhere and save himself for late. He drops a lot in weight, so I think he might surprise a few people.”
Steparty shouldered 59kg across his previous three outings in weight-for-age races and carries 51.5kg at Randwick.
Schiller aims for his maiden Derby success and a second Doncaster Mile triumph after steering Celestial Legend to the win two years back.
Check the Australian betting sites for top odds in the ATC Australian Derby.