Statuario’s performance in the Autumn Stakes at Caulfield on Saturday will determine whether the grey three-year-old gelding heads towards the Group 1 Australian Guineas at Flemington on March 1.
Co-trainer Emma-Lee Browne said Statuario’s first-up run against the toughest field he has faced will shape his campaign beyond Saturday. Statuario showed promise during his first preparation, securing two wins and two second-place finishes from six starts. In his last two outings, he finished fourth to VRC Oaks winner Treasurethe Moment over 1400m at Caulfield and second to Opening Address over 1800m at Flemington in the Batman Stakes.
“We are very happy with him, and he’s pleased us with his jumpouts and work,” Browne said. “How high we set our sights for this campaign, we will know after Saturday. The Australian Guineas makes sense to target if he runs well.”
Statuario will be ridden by champion jockey Damian Lane and is currently a $10 chance with betting apps in Australia.