Emerging star Another Wil is unlikely to contest the Group 1 Memsie Stakes (1400m) on August 31 at Caulfield, despite being as short as $10 in some pre-post markets with betting apps. Instead, he is expected to target a Benchmark 100 race over 1400m on the same day, setting up a more measured start to his spring campaign.
Assistant trainer Jack Turnbull indicated that Another Wil’s first-up performance in the BM100 race will determine his path forward, potentially leading to a second-up run in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m). “The idea would be that we are running well there rather than going to a race like a Memsie,” Turnbull told Racing.com. While Another Wil is physically ready, Turnbull noted that the colt still has some mental maturing to do: “He’s pretty hot and jazzy at times, so physically he’s there, but mentally he’s still got a touch to go.”
Meanwhile, import Saint George is set to make his long-awaited Australian debut in the 1700-meter Heatherlie Stakes at Caulfield on August 31. Sidelined for over a year due to injury, Saint George is being aimed at the spring cups but first needs to qualify. Turnbull acknowledged the challenges of the horse’s comeback but expressed confidence in his class: “He’s clean in the wind and good actioned. He’ll have three jumpouts and then 1700 meters first-up.”
Both Another Wil and Saint George are poised for exciting spring campaigns, with carefully considered plans to maximise their potential. Another Wil’s initial run will be key in shaping his spring trajectory, while Saint George’s debut will determine if he can fulfil his cups ambitions after a long layoff.
