Trainer Anthony Cummings had been quietly optimistic Terwilliker could improve on his performances in the past two editions of the Stayer’s Cup, but his confidence will be dented after the meeting’s belated venue change.
Racing officials made the decision to move Saturday’s program from Randwick to Rosehill on Friday in response to the worsening COVID outbreak in parts of Sydney, particularly the eastern suburbs.
Terwilliker has raced three times at Randwick for a win and a second but has placed just once in seven starts at Rosehill.
Two of those Rosehill efforts have been in past editions of the Stayer’s Cup with the gelding finishing fifth to Azuro two years ago and sixth to Sweet Thomas last year.
“Ever since he ran in the Rosehill Guineas on a wet track he hasn’t gone as well there,” Cummings said.
Despite his reservations about the circuit, Cummings is happy Terwilliker is heading to the race in good shape.
He also warned the on-pace stayer might not necessarily look to lead.
“We came out of his last race thinking he may be better ridden off speed, that’s what Jason (Collett) said,” Cummings said.
“There is certainly no burning desire to go out there and set the speed. If he ends up there by default, that’s fine, and if he finishes up third in the run that’s fine too.
“But he goes there with a nice weight and he’s got a racing stye that is going to help with the small field.”
Terwilliker, who will be ridden by Andrew Adkins, has had four runs this campaign, the latest when third to Brown Thomas over 2400m on a heavy track at Warwick Farm.
