Progressive stayer Campaldino has moved a step closer to his Sydney Cup goal with a promising win in the Randwick City Stakes.
Given time to find his feet by Tim Clark as stablemate Alalcance set a solid tempo in front, Campaldino ($4.40) surged between runners late to down Athabascan ($41) by 1-1/4 lengths with Juja Kibo ($4.20) another neck away third.
The former New Zealander strung together four consecutive wins last preparation, culminating in a Brisbane Cup (3200m) victory in June, and Saturday’s 2000m assignment was just his second run since.
Co-trainer Adrian Bott was thrilled to see the horse back in the winner’s circle, optimistic he could make his mark over the autumn.
“Great to see him bounce back in such good shape second-up,” Bott said.
“I thought he was in for a nice campaign, and he is only going to keep improving as they get over ground. He showed that last preparation.
“He’s got those true staying capabilities and I’m looking forward to the campaign ahead.”
First-up since November, Alalcance also did a good job to fight all the way to the line for sixth after establishing a significant mid-race lead, Bott confirming both horses would head towards the N E Manion Cup (2400m) at Rosehill in a fortnight.
“She was there for a long way so there is some good upside for her going forward as well,” Bott said.
“At this stage, they will push on to the Manion, through the Chairman’s Handicap and onto the Sydney Cup.
“It’s a program we have followed before and used it well.”
Clark said the winner was flat footed when the field sprinted off such a solid tempo, but his stamina kicked in late.
“I had to wait and let him build through when he was ready, and when he finally got into gear and had his revs up, he was always going to win,” Clark said.
“The good thing about him is he relaxes so well. He goes to sleep.”
The Sydney Cup (3200m) is at Randwick on April 11.