Mick Price says Hardham has had the right preparation to finish in the money when he makes his racetrack return at Caulfield.
Hardham will be having his first start for Price when he tackles the Vain Stakes on Saturday.
The three-year-old won his debut at Pakenham in March for Peter Moody before being sent for a break.
He was transferred to Price’s stable after Moody closed his training business when he was handed a six-month suspension for a cobalt offence.
Price said Hardham had a solid hit-out on the course proper at Caulfield on Tuesday.
“I expect he’ll be finishing off into the money,” Price said.
“He’s drawn a little bit out but we have no intention of hunting him forward and hopefully there’ll be tempo in the race so he’ll be hitting the line.”
On top of the gallop on the course proper, Hardham has been given two jump-outs at Caulfield to have him right for his first-up run.
Price said the first hit-out was a soft trial whereas his second outing was a stronger performance with the trainer saying it had the desired effect.
He also expects Hardham to appreciate stepping up in distance as he progresses into his campaign after Saturday’s first-up run at 1100m.
“He’s a nomination for the Caulfield Guineas, as are so many other three-year-olds,” Price said.
“He’s got to show us he’s worthy of a start but his first win was very good and he was spelled immediately after.
“He’s had a good prep and I expect him to run very well.”
