Managing Whinchat’s temperament is key to his success, and trainer David Pfeiffer believes Saturday’s Listed Winter Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill offers the right conditions.

The quirky five-year-old is also nominated for Sunshine Coast but has barrier issues that can unsettle his races.

That was evident two starts ago at Randwick, where he missed the start by six lengths and finished last as the $3.30 favourite.

“I think the horse is flying,” Pfeiffer said.

“It was highly unfortunate he reared in the gates second up because I thought it was his race to win.”

In both other recent starts, Whinchat led at a solid tempo from wide draws, including a game effort when beaten under two lengths in the Listed Civic Stakes (1400m).

“A few of the speed horses I thought might be there (on Saturday) aren’t there,” Pfeiffer said.

“With his history in the barriers I’d be terrified of travelling interstate.”

Whinchat is on the comeback after a ligament setback, and Pfeiffer said he’s needed time to regain fitness.

“He’s come through that tough run well… I think it’s achievable to win a stakes race with him,” he said.

Whinchat is a $13 chance, with Jay Ford to ride.

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