Co-trainer David Eustace is not treating the Group Three Blue Sapphire Stakes as a track gallop for Anders despite the flying colt having only two other horses as opposition.
Eustace said he was approaching the race at Caulfield on Wednesday with confidence but he respected the other two runners, Hanseatic and Ranting.
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“Hanseatic’s a good horse and Ranting’s an improving, talented galloper,” Eustace said.
Speaking on RSN Radio on Tuesday, Eustace said they won’t be making any changes to Anders’ frontrunning racing style.
“With only three runners it becomes very tactical. He’s got great gate speed and gets into stride quickly, so we have every intention to lead,” Eustace said.
“It won’t be a track gallop by any means, but we go into the race with confidence.”
Anders has had two starts this campaign for two easy wins at Rosehill in the Listed The Rosebud and the Group Three San Domenico Stakes.
Anders then headed to Melbourne to run in the Moir Stakes but was scratched on race eve due to an elevated temperature.
“He’s back to his best. He’s ready to go based on his work and jump-outs,” Eustace said.
Eustace pointed out that Anders was tackling 1200 metres for the first time in his career on Wednesday and was also having his first run at Caulfield.
The three-year-old is expected to have his next start in the Group One Coolmore Stud Stakes at Flemington on October 31.
“He’s a well bred colt and winning a Group One is the most important thing for him,” Eustace said.
The Ciaron Maher and Eustace stable will also have Al Galayel run in the Coongy Cup and if he wins he will get an automatic start in the Caulfield Cup on Saturday.
Eustace said he wasn’t sure whether they would take up the offer as Al Galayel raced best when his runs were spaced.
“I think he’ll go close tomorrow, but then to back up in the Caulfield Cup? Not sure,” Eustace said.
“It’s a real conundrum….If not the Cup, possibly the Mackinnon.”
