The retirement of superstar Anamoe has Godolphin on the lookout for its next weight-for-age horse and James Cummings is banking on Pericles filling the void.
The gelding has been carefully managed and took a traditional three-year-old path through the autumn, highlighted by a Group 2 triumph in Melbourne and narrow second to Lindermann in the Group 1 Rosehill Guineas.
Returning with a brace of 1400-metre wins, Pericles is now set to step up to weight-for-age company when he takes on the likes of established performers Zaaki, Think It Over and Fangirl in Saturday’s 7 Stakes (1600m) at Randwick.
“We’ve had a pretty good start to the season and the team is doing an excellent job as we do our best to fill the big gap left behind by the retirement of Anamoe to stud,” Cummings said.
“The pressure has been on Pericles because in many ways he has needed to be our next weight-for-age horse and essentially, that’s what we’re asking him to do this campaign.”
While Cummings is still weighing up whether the timing is right for the horse this weekend, he is increasingly tempted by the way the 7 Stakes looks to pan out for Pericles on paper.
A natural on-pace runner, Pericles can either lead or camp off Zaaki, his wide draw giving apprentice Zac Lloyd the opportunity to dictate tactics.
“I actually like the map, I don’t mind the barrier at all,” Cummings said.
“The query remains whether I want to test the horse at weight-for-age just yet this weekend, coming through a set weights and penalties race where he was nicely in and a handicap before that.
“I could just keep him ticking along for the Epsom without pushing him in this race just yet.
“(But) it’s the type of race where Pericles can run very well. He can roll up there and put himself in the race and he can be fighting on strongly when the pressure begins to build.”
Pericles has been the subject of early support, firming from $11 into $8.50 for The 7 Stakes, while Saturday will also be an important afternoon for stablemate In Secret.
The mare is a $3 favourite for The Shorts (1100m) where she will be bidding to underline her credentials as Godolphin’s leading contender for its Everest slot.
“It’s a terrific Shorts, as they have evolved to be now as lead-ups to the premier sprint, and she’s well and truly burning along beautifully to be a competitive chance,” Cummings said.
“But make no mistake, we’re going to do our best to have her absolutely spot-on next month.”
