Another Wil has signalled his readiness for a Group 1 campaign with an impressive jumpout at Cranbourne on Monday, setting the stage for his autumn return.
The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding is likely to resume in the CF Orr Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 8, following a narrow defeat in the G1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes last preparation.
Assistant trainer Jack Turnbull expressed confidence in the horse’s condition, telling racing.com, “We’re really pleased with where he’s at.” Another Wil worked “on the bridle” during the jumpout, with jockey Celine Gaudray guiding him to a strong performance. “He was a head away from being a G1 winner last prep, so hopefully we can hit the ground running,” Turnbull added.
While optimistic about Another Wil’s potential, Turnbull remains cautious. “He gives us every indication that he is a future G1 horse. But sometimes it doesn’t work out that way,” he said.
Meanwhile, stablemate Duke De Sessa will begin his campaign in the Carlyon Cup (1600m) at Caulfield, while Southport Tycoon, unplaced in the Australia Stakes, may benefit from blinkers in future runs. “In hindsight, he raced like he wanted shades on like he had on in the Manikato,” Turnbull noted.
Another Wil’s campaign could also include races like the All-Star Mile and Sydney’s Doncaster Mile, with Turnbull describing the planning as “a bit tricky” due to the variety of options.
Another Wil won heat 1 at the Cranbourne jump outs ahead of Duke De Sessa earlier this morning 😍
@cmaherracing pic.twitter.com/1NLjpyZDYh— Racing.com (@Racing) January 27, 2025