Inverloch is set to race for prize money of $500,000 in the space of a week after winning the Mornington Cup Prelude at Caulfield.
The Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young-trained galloper will back-up next Saturday in the $350,000 Listed Mornington Cup (2400m) after a polished display in Saturday $150,000 Listed race over 2000m
Taken to the front by jockey Michael Dee, Inverloch ($12) kicked clear on turning for home to hold off $2 favourite Secret Blaze by 1-1/2 lengths with Odeon ($6.50) three quarters of a length away third.
With Young in Sydney for Saturday’s Rosehill meeting and Busuttin absent, assistant-trained Brendon Hawtin said Inverloch only needs to please during the week to take his place at Mornington.
“That’s been the plan all along,” Hawtin said.
“It was a strong win today and the horse that beat him last time, Aktau, looks a smart one.”
Dee said it was his intention to lead on Saturday and when Inverloch began quickly the pair was able to find the front without pressure.
“He had a beautiful lead, he had his ears pricked and quickened up really well,” Dee said.
“He picked up underneath me, I didn’t have to ask him, he just grabbed the bridle again and put a couple of lengths on them quite comfortably.
“It was a very good win.”
Co-trainer Calvin McEvoy said there was a remote chance Secret Blaze could also back-up in the Mornington Cup.
“We’ll see how he does during the week, but if he doesn’t run he will come back here for the Easter Cup,” McEvoy said.