Three-year-old Late Charge will be out to restore Derby aspirations at Sandown on Saturday.
The Wendy Kelly-trained colt was scratched from last Friday night’s Group Two Alister Clark Stakes at Moonee Valley because of an elevated white blood cell count.
But he is back to full health and will line up in a 1600-metre race against his own age at Sandown.
Kelly said backing the colt up in Saturday week’s Group One Rosehill Guineas was an option if Late Charge performed strongly.
“He is paid up as a first acceptor for the ATC Derby but we’re also looking at the races in South Australia as well,” Kelly said.
“Depending on what happens with him on Saturday will determine whether we head forward to New South Wales or South Australia.”
Kelly has opted for the mile race for three-year-olds with Late Charge over two other options on the card despite the horse having a big weight.
“I think it’s fairer on the horse going against his own age rather than against older, more experienced horses,” the trainer said.
“I think he’s a bit better chance. I know he’s got the 60 kilos but he’s a nice big colt, so hopefully he should be able to carry it.”
Late Charge returned to racing with a minor placing in the Group Two Autumn Stakes at Caulfield before finishing ninth after a three-wide run in the Group One Australian Guineas.
