Victoria Derby champion Goldrush Guru is set to make his seasonal debut this weekend in the Listed Durbridge Stakes (1100m) at Morphettville.
The American Pharoah colt, last seen claiming victory in the prestigious three-year-old event, completed a 600m jumpout at Morphettville on Tuesday morning in preparation for his first-up assignment.
Trainer Andrew Gluyas confirmed that Goldrush Guru is on track for a two-race campaign leading up to his primary autumn goal, the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) at Flemington on March 1.
“He’s ready to go. We’re happy with how he’s progressed, and his little hit-out today has us confident for Saturday,” Gluyas said.
“The Durbridge was the right option here—it sets the foundation for the C.S. Hayes (1400m), and from there, we’ll head to the Australian Guineas. That will be the plan.
“The Guineas will be the fork in the road where we decide his path moving forward.”
Gluyas expressed satisfaction with how the colt has returned to training following a short break after his impressive Derby triumph in November.
“He’s come back well—he’s strong, looks great, and is alert. It’s just standard progression for a maturing horse,” Gluyas added.
While the 1100-metre sprint may not be his ideal distance, Gluyas is optimistic that Goldrush Guru will perform well against experienced short-course rivals.
“Early in his last prep, he was still learning, but he handled 1250m well, winning a maiden and a Class 2. He’s come a long way since then, so it’s just about how fast they go on the day,” Gluyas explained.
Owned and bred by Harry Perks, Goldrush Guru boasts an impressive record, with four wins from eight career starts. He has only missed the placings once, finishing seventh in the Group 3 Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville last autumn.
