General Salute has raced almost exclusively in stakes company since his juvenile season, and while he took time to break through at that level, he’s finally hit his groove.
Placed seven times in black-type grade, the gelding ended his drought in the 2025 Star Kingdom Stakes (1200m) and has this year added feature race wins in the Winter Stakes (1400m) and Bill Ritchie Handicap (1400m).
It has been a lesson in patience and perseverance for connections, who have kept faith in the horse as he struggled with feet problems earlier in his career.
“He’s had his issues over the years, but the owners are very patient, and they’ve always known he’s a quality galloper with his fair share of ability,” co-trainer Sterling Alexiou said.
“There has never been any pressure on us to ever put any pressure on the horse.
“We’ve let him slowly build through the grades. He’s up over the $1 million mark (in prizemoney) now, which is the bees’ knees for a homebred.”
General Salute will be chasing another big race success in Saturday’s Alan Brown Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill, having finished third in the corresponding event 12 months ago.
The first two placegetters from last year, winner Headley Grange and runner-up Gringotts, will be among his rivals, along with the likes of seasoned campaigner Private Eye and the talented Linebacker.
Alexiou concedes it’s a tough field, but from a good draw in barrier four and having posted his first win on a firmer surface last start, he’s positive General Salute will again make his presence felt.
“It was his first win on a good track the other day, so it was good to see him tick that box,” he said.
“It looks a hot sort of race. He’ll have to go to another level, but he’s draw well, and I imagine he’ll get a good run in the race.
“He knows nothing but to give his all and he’s a horse who fills you with a fair bit of confidence that when things go right, he always shows up.”
The Victorian-trained Sepals was a $5 favourite for the Alan Brown Stakes on Thursday, with General Salute rated among the leading chances at $9.50.
Both Lady Shenandoah and Warnie are scratchings with both set to contest the Group 1 Toorak Handicap (1600m) at Caulfield.
