He’s burdened with a name that suggests he may be less than serious, but Galah heads a determined three-pronged attack from Darley on the Villiers Stakes.
The same trio – Galah, Quidnunc and Classics – which contested the Festival Stakes will represent Sheikh Mohammed’s operation in Sydney’s summer showpiece at Warwick Farm on Saturday.
The 1600m Group Two feature will be without Festival Stakes winner Malavio who sustained an injury during the race, but trainer Peter Snowden says his runners have come through the race well.
Galah finished third, Quidnunc fourth and Classics 11th, less than three lengths from the winner.
“They have all done well since and will be there in the Villiers,” Snowden said.
Galah is a four-year-old entire by Redoute’s Choice out of Oaks winner Rinky Dink but hasn’t won since the Carbine Stakes at Flemington in October last year.
The Ron Quinton-trained Monton will be out to defend his title after finishing second to Malavio in the Festival in which the pair took control early.
Group One winner Shadows In The Sun will continue his comeback with trainer Anthony Cummings not too disappointed with his 14th of 16 in the Festival, beaten five lengths.
The winner of the 2011 South Australian Derby (2500m), Shadows In The Sun has had two runs back since contracting pneumonia.
He was an eye-catching second to Ollie Vollie first-up and Cummings is convinced he can recapture his best form.
“He’s healthy and well,” Cummings said.
“The mile suits at the moment and we will gradually work him up in distance.”
Peter Robl will ride Shadows In The Sun after having the dates of a careless riding suspension changed to incorporate Villiers day.
The meeting is being held at Warwick Farm instead of Randwick due to renovations at Sydney’s premier track.
