Adrian Bott has been happy with how Eliyass has come through a tough run in the Group 2 Hollindale Stakes (1800m) ahead of the Group 1 Doomben Cup (2000m) on Saturday.
The dual Group 3 winning gelding was beaten before the turn when heavily supported into $4.60 second-elect in the Hollindale Stakes on very heavy going, beaten over 20 lengths by Antino.
Bott, who trains in partnership with Gai Waterhouse, said the run wasn’t a true guide of Eliyass’ ability.
“Eliyass was obviously disappointing at the Gold Coast last start,” Bott told SEN track.
“I think it’s probably hard to take any true guide or read off that track and conditions on the day [which] unfortunately, he really struggled under.
“But he worked up well Tuesday morning, he’s remained in Queensland. He’s come through it in good shape, so I can bank on him being able to bounce back.”
Eliyass finished third behind champion mare Via Sistina in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) during the Spring which gives Bott faith his horse is up to the task on Saturday.
“The form through the Spring for him has been excellent. So if he can get back to that, he comes right back into calculations.”
A natural front runner, Eliyass has drawn the widest barrier in the 13-strong field, in polar opposite to $3.80 second favourite Pride Of Jenni who has drawn barrier one, but with drying conditions in Brisbane this week, Bott is confident in an improved showing.
“I think you have to treat it as a forgive” Bott said.
“Some relished it, but obviously when you’re seeing the fields strung out as they are in the margins. That’s telling something in what are competitive horses and fields.
“Unfortunately, he was one that didn’t handle it, but he’s done everything right since.”
Bott also gave an update on highly touted import Sir Delius, who won the Group 3 Chairman’s Handicap (2000m) on Saturday.
“He’s going to the paddock today.”
“We’ll just give ourselves as much time and lead in as possible to run the style of preparation that we’d like… everything has been centred around the Melbourne Cup so we’ll stick with that.”
Eliyass is a $9.00 chance for the Doomben Cup with Tim Clark to ride, while Blake Shinn will seek a fourth win in the race when he reunites with Hollindale winner Antino, who is an early $3.50 favourite after drawing barrier 11.
