Despite already securing a spot in the 2026 Melbourne Cup with his Sydney Cup victory, Changingoftheguard will press on to Flemington this Saturday to contest the ‘win and you’re in’ Group 3 Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m).
Trainer Kris Lees said the race fits neatly into the gelding’s program as he builds towards another staying target later in the season.
The Newcastle-based horseman confirmed the Brisbane Cup (3200m) on June 13 remains a key aim for the Sydney Cup winner.
Changingoftheguard produced a major upset when taking out the Sydney Cup at $51, but Lees said the performance didn’t come as a complete shock.
He pointed to the horse’s ninth placing in last year’s Melbourne Cup as evidence of his ability at the top level.
“In the lead-up to the Sydney Cup he struck a couple of wet tracks which weren’t to his liking. I would say it was a pleasant surprise and not a huge shock he turned his form around,” Lees said.
Lees added that Changingoftheguard had pleased the stable with a recent trial at Newcastle.
“He pleased us and he’s in good order to run a forward race in the Ramsden,” he said.
The trainer also confirmed the Lloyd and Nick Williams-owned stayer is firmly on track for another tilt at the Melbourne Cup in 2026.
