Trainer and cycling enthusiast David Payne might not be in the Tour de France class but he will saddle up the omen tip in Saturday’s Congratulations Cadel Evans Handicap.
Payne, who gets out on his bike a couple of times a week and cycles around 20km each time, will start Winning Glory in the race named in honour of Evans’ groundbreaking Tour win.
“It might be the right omen,” Payne said.
“Winning Glory and Cadel Evans might both go out in style.”
Win, lose or draw at Rosehill, Winning Glory will be sent for a break and Payne hopes he can develop into a handy stayer next campaign.
The three-year-old will be tackling 2400 metres for the first time on Saturday after beating all but the smart Wazn over 2000m at Rosehill last start.
Payne isn’t worried about the rise in distance and says he is confident Winning Glory will run out the journey.
“I think he’s a genuine stayer looking for the step up in trip,” Payne said.
“This will be his last run this preparation, he’s still a three-year-old and he’s done enough. I think he’ll make a nice stayer later on.”
While Winning Glory is at the end of his campaign, Diamond Jim will kick his off in the opening event over 1300m.
He has not raced since finishing down the track in the Queensland Derby but he has twice been placed first-up and Payne predicted a cheeky showing.
“He’s nice and fresh which is why I haven’t trialled him,” Payne said.
“He had a break in Queensland after the Derby and he’s done well.”
Last-start winner Queenian has been scratched from the Inglis Bonus Hcp (1300m) after getting 60kg and will instead run in the Listed The Rosebud a week later but stablemate Florentina will fly the flag on Saturday.
She was runner-up to subsequent Group One winner Helmet on debut then underwent a wind operation after finishing fifth in the Black Opal Stakes at Canberra.
“If she reproduces that (Helmet) form she will run well,” Payne said.
Honest gelding Madibagold will round out Payne’s team when he chases an overdue win in the Winter Challenge (1500m).
He has filled the minor placings at his past three starts, the most recent when third behind Saturday’s rivals Scarf and Devils Arcade in the Winter Stakes (1500m).
“If he gets a bit of luck he can turn the tables,” Payne said.
AAP TURF
