The third of trainer Gerald Ryan’s potential Golden Rose contenders will step out in the San Domenico Stakes at Rosehill.
Menari, winner of the Listed Rosebud last Saturday week, is the $8 equal favourite for the Group One Golden Rose (1400m) on September 23 alongside Godolphin’s Kementari who has yet to make his racetrack appearance this season.
Trapeze Artist ran sixth in Saturday’s Up And Coming Stakes (1300m), 2-3/4 lengths behind the winner Dracarys, a run that pleased his trainer given the colt had to carry 61kg as a Group One placegetter.
Condor Heroes is one of 13 entries for Saturday’s San Domenico (1100m) and carries 57kg in the set weights and penalties event.
“At this stage all three are heading to the Golden Rose but will take different paths to the race,” Ryan said.
Blue Diamond Stakes runner-up Pariah is the $2.60 favourite in TAB’s first market on the San Domenico ahead of Tulip ($5) and Condor Heroes ($6).
Condor Heroes led at his first start but was run down late when second to Khan in the Breeders’ Plate in October.
When he returned in March he dominated in front to win a maiden at Warwick Farm.
Things changed in the Kindergarten Stakes when he came out of the gates slowly and over-raced, eventually running on to finish second to Property in the Group Three race.
“Early doors he was a jump-and-run horse,” Ryan said.
“I don’t think he’s established a racing pattern but I think he will probably be leading in this field depending on the final make-up and the barriers.
“His asset is his speed so he could roll along.
“I think he is a lot stronger now and is more settled in himself so he should relax in his races.”
