Amexed to take first step to bigger things

Optimistic trainer Tony Gollan has entered talented stayer Amexed in the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups with the six-year-old to make his season return in an open handicap at Eagle Farm.

Gollan has always had a high opinion of Amexed who runs in Saturday’s Programmed Property Services Open (1600m) but has had a few issues over the past couple of seasons.

As a three-year-old, Amexed won the Group Three Rough Habit Plate and was fifth in the Queensland Derby.

He returned to form during this year’s winter with wins in the Listed Caloundra Cup and $100,000 Stayers Series Final at Ipswich.

“Obviously, the Caulfield Cup and the Melbourne Cup might be aiming far too high,” Gollan said.

“But you have got to dream so we have thrown in nominations for both races.

“You have got to be in it to win.

“But there are plenty of other races in the spring like the Victorian country Cups which might suit him.”

Brisbane’s premier trainer, Gollan is likely to have a light interstate representation this spring as he puts the final touches to his Sydney satellite stable at Rosehill.

While he feels Amexed deserves a go in elite company again, no final decision will be made until the gelding shows something in Brisbane in coming weeks.

“The 1600 metres on Saturday might be a bit short but he has trialled OK,” Gollan said.

“But I want to sit back and analyse how he goes on Saturday before we consider going south.”