While the Winx Stakes showdown between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi will be the focal point this week, there will be plenty of interest in the Rosehill barrier trials as several more stars ramp up preparations for their returns.
Everest hopeful Headwall will step out for his third hit-out in the opening 900m heat alongside the likes of Beadman, Lazzura, Linebacker, Marhoona and Skyhook.
The seven-year-old hasn’t raced since suffering a leg injury following his Concorde Stakes (1000m) victory in September last year, and has been given a gradual build-up by trainer Matthew Smith.
He was entered for this weekend’s Show County Quality (1200m) at Randwick before the nomination was withdrawn, Smith determining to stick to his original plan to chase back-to-back wins in next month’s feature sprint.
“I put him in and had a look, but decided I didn’t really want to change tack,” Smith said.
“I want to go to the Concorde and then go to The Shorts. He’s trialling Friday now and he’s low flying. I think he’s going better than last ‘prep’.”
Several new-season three-year-olds will clash in the second heat, led by Reisling Stakes winner Chayan, Champagne Stakes placegetter Diameter and Baillieu winner Southend, while Todman Stakes winner Paradoxium will be on show later in the session in trial six, and J J Atkins placegetter Stormy Marco in the eleventh heat.
Chris Waller has entered both Lady Shenandoah and Campione D’Italia for separate trials on Friday, but both are expected to run at Randwick a day later.
Lady Shenandoah is among 14 acceptors for the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m), while Sires’ Produce Stakes winner Campione D’Italia returns against the older horses in the Show County Quality (1200m).
Tommy Berry partnered the latter to his Skyline Stakes (1200m) victory in February and after riding him in two recent trials and an exhibition gallop at Rosehill last weekend, he can’t wait to jump back aboard on race day.
“He was quite a handful (at two), but everything he’s doing this preparation so far is showing he’s matured quite a lot,” Berry said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing him do it at the races.”
