After two inconclusive performances, Art Cadeau will get another chance to prove he can extend his brilliance to a mile, this time at his favourite track.
The reigning Kosciuszko winner will line-up in Saturdayâs Furphy Handicap (1600m) at Randwick where he has posted four wins from five starts, including a 1400m victory two weeks ago.
Prior to that, the gelding had missed a place in back-to-back starts over 1600m in the Hawksbury and Scone Cups, although trainer Terry Robinson said he had genuine excuses both times.
âBoth times he has raced over a mile it has been on heavy tracks and things didnât work out,â Robinson said.
âHawkesbury was the better run, he was three-deep without cover and then got galloped on and was lame after the race, but he recovered quickly.
âAt Scone, that track was pretty ordinary up there and he got a whack in the eye.
âIt will be interesting to see whether he does handle the mile. I think from the draw (11), there seems to be a bit of speed in the race so he will probably go back again weâll give him the opportunity to find the line.â
If Art Cadeau can prove his credentials over the longer journey, it will open the door to more options in the spring.
While Robinsonâs first goal will be a defence of the horseâs Kosciuszko title, a start in The Big Dance on Melbourne Cup day also appeals.
âI was hoping he might be up for a race like The Big Dance but he has got to qualify there,â Robinson said.
âWhether we go that way we will find out after Saturday.â
Kathy OâHara was victorious aboard Art Cadeau last start and has retained the ride at Randwick, where the horse is on the second line of TAB fixed odds betting at $6.50.
