Observational kicks off a campaign in a Listed race at Flemington that his trainer John Sadler hopes will lead to Group One success in Perth during the summer.
A former Lloyd Williams-owned import, Observational will be having his first run since May when he runs in the Listed Paris Lane Handicap (1400m) on Saturday.
Sadler expects the distance to be too short and that Observational will need the outing.
Observational is being set for two $1 million Group One races at Ascot at the conclusion of the Melbourne spring carnival.
Sadler is eyeing the Railway Stakes (1600m) on November 25 and the Kingston Classic (1800m) a fortnight later.
“He’s being prepared for a Perth campaign,” Sadler said.
“He’s still a little way off his top before he’s ready to be competitive.”
While he Observational as a stayer last campaign, Sadler thinks he is best suited in middle distance races.
Since being in Australia the gelding has won two Bendigo Golden Miles (1600m) and an Easter Cup (2000m) at Caulfield.
He was also placed in the Warrnambool Cup (2350m) in May.
“He ran a good second in the Warrnambool Cup but I don’t really think he’s a stayer,” Sadler said.
“I think he’s more of a middle distance horse, between 1600 metres to 2000 metres.”
Track conditions will determine whether Charmed Harmony accompanies his stablemate in Saturday’s race after he was scratched from Caulfield with a minor setback last week.
Sadler said Charmed Harmony worked well during the week and was ready to take his place on Saturday, provided the track was not too firm.
Charmed Harmony is a $6.50 chance with Observational at $26 and Sydney visitor New Tipperary the $5 favourite.
