William Haggas is weighing up a trip down under for Desert Hero
William Haggas, the esteemed trainer, is contemplating an entry for Desert Hero in the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), set to take place at Flemington on November 7.
Owned by King Charles and Queen Camilla, the colt has attracted attention following his third-place finish in the Group 1 English St Leger over 2800m.
“I thought he ran a very good race. I think the handicapper will put him up from 110,” commented Haggas.
He revealed that the pace of the St Leger race wasn’t what they had anticipated, affecting Desert Hero’s showing.
“We all thought there’d be plenty of pace, but actually they didn’t go very fast.”
Despite this, the colt demonstrated grit and determination.
“I think he stuck on very well and was very brave.”
As for the Melbourne Cup, Haggas is not making any rushed decisions.
“The horse will go through his veterinary tests, starting tonight, and then a couple of days of MRIs. That doesn’t mean he’s definitely going, but the weights come out tomorrow and then we’ll collate all the information and see what happens.”
