The chances of smart New Zealand three-year-old Malandrino running at Doomben on Saturday hinge on the outcome of sales negotiations.
Trainer Murray Baker brought Malandrino across the Tasman for next month’s Group One Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm and planned to launch his winter campaign in Saturday’s Group Three Rough Habit Plate (2000m).
However, Malandrino’s outstanding last start win in the Group Three Manawatu Classic at Awapuni attracted the attention of keen buyers in Hong Kong.
The son of Darci Brahma, who is a $5 second favourite for the Queensland Derby with TAB Sportsbet, has passed his veterinary tests but negotiations to finalise the deal are continuing.
“We’re not sure if he’s running in the Rough Habit,” Baker said.
“If he’s sold he’ll definitely come out and he won’t run for me again. He’s passed his vet tests but the deal isn’t quite finalised yet.
“We should know either way by tomorrow (Friday) but if he happens to run he’ll run very well. He’s got some class.”
Malandrino is managed by Lib Petagna on behalf of New Zealand’s JML Bloodstock.
Baker believes Malandrino has a big future and is confident the stayer can perform up to the highest level.
“He won easy in the Manawatu Classic and it’s a very good race,” Baker said.
“Four of the last seven winners in the race have gone on to win Group Ones.
“I had one of them, Dowry, who won the South Australian Oaks.”
Dowry won the South Australian Oaks in 2004 when ridden by Rhys McLeod.
“Malandrino is a pretty good horse and being out of a Montjeu mare he should stay,” Baker said.
“His win last start was very good. He was fourth and was challenged on the bend but he went on to win quite well.
“He won first-up back home over 1600 metres before the Manawatu Classic.
“I bought him at the sales but he didn’t race as a two-year-old as I thought he was a staying type.”
Malandrino is one of 16 acceptors for the Rough Habit Plate which is headed by Patinack Farm’s Isopach who was third to Polish Knight in the Tulloch Stakes during the Sydney carnival.
