Melbourne Cup winner Knight’s Choice has made his return to the track with a barrier trial at Caulfield, signalling the beginning of his latest campaign.
The 2024 Cup hero had been sidelined after being caught up in a strangles outbreak at Macedon Lodge, which forced the gelding into quarantine and ruled out any chance of defending his Flemington title.
The highly contagious bacterial infection impacted several horses at the Victorian base of trainers John Symons and Sheila Laxon, prompting strict biosecurity measures and disrupting training and travel schedules.
Knight’s Choice was not fully extended in his trial, instead completing the 1000-metre hit-out under restraint as part of a gradual build-up in fitness.
The rising seven-year-old worked home late in his heat to finish fourth.
Connections have indicated a Queensland winter campaign is on the agenda, with the Hollindale Stakes among the races being considered.
