Trainer Sam Freedman has reported positive developments regarding Group 1 winner Artorius’ training progress, as the horse prepares for his trip to the UK.
Artorius completed his final jump out on Monday morning at Flemington, before his upcoming European tour. He finished behind fellow Royal Ascot-bound horses, Coolangatta and Cannonball.
The participation details for Royal Ascot indicate Coolangatta and Cannonball will compete in the King’s Stand Stakes (1000m), whereas Artorius, along with The Astrologist, are set for the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee (1200m).
Artorius needed some urging to maintain pace with the leaders during his 900m work, but ultimately finished in a manner that pleased Freedman.
“He was at his top a little bit today. Got a little bit lost out there,” Freedman told Racing.com.
“He closed it off well. He was just getting into his work on the line.”
“He is in good shape, had the blow out he needed. He will come on for this and be ready to go.”
Freedman also confirmed that there is another piece of work planned for Artorius before his departure for England.
“We want him to gradually come on. He will have one piece of work there eight days out from the race and he will be ready to go,” Freedman said.
