Broadside will reignite his campaign to feature in next month's Metropolitan Handicap
Consistent stayer Broadside will reignite his campaign to feature in next month’s Group One Metropolitan Handicap when he runs in the Listed Premier’s Cup at Rosehill.
The six-year-old returns to the track on Saturday for the first time since his third behind Plot Twist and Richard Of Yorke in the Stayers Cup (3200m) on a heavy track at Randwick in June.
The former New Zealander is now trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott who have taken him to three wins and three minor placings.
“He’s very forward for this race. He’s had a couple of nice trials,” Bott said.
Although attempting 1900m first-up off a break might be a risk, Bott is confident Broadside is up to the task and punters agree with the gelding the $2.90 favourite on race eve.
“He’s retained plenty of residual fitness. He’s been ticking over nicely. I’m very happy with what we’ve seen from him in his work,” Bott said.
Broadside has trialled twice and also galloped at Canterbury to ready himself for the assignment.
Bott said the Metropolitan (2400m) at Randwick on September 30 was the aim this preparation.
“That would be an ideal race for a horse like him going through his grades,” he said. “Down in the ratings he sees out a strong 2400.”
Broadside’s stablemate Dee I Cee is at $41 but Bott can make a case for him despite his 11 lengths last over 1400m at Rosehill on August 12.
“It was a totally unsuitable trip for him,” he said. “He was run off his feet early and the quick ground wasn’t ideal for him either.
“The 1900 will enable him to put himself into the race and land in a lot more forward position.”
