Encosta Line and Rodrico have not yet been tested in stakes company but their trainer is confident the pair can handle the Group One atmosphere of the Queensland Derby.
Chris Waller gave the two solid hit-outs at Rosehill on Monday morning to confirm they would join stablemates Mackintosh and Multifacets in Saturday’s 2400m-Classic at Eagle Farm.
Encosta Line, a winner at Rosehill on May 7, missed a scheduled start in the Grand Prix Stakes won by Mackintosh because of an irregular blood picture which returned to normal within a day.
Rodrico won a benchmark race at Rosehill on Grand Prix Stakes day, May 28, to put himself in the Derby picture.
“You have to respect Sydney Saturday racing,” Waller said.
“It’s very strong and they are both bred to get the 2400 metres.
“Encosta Line has gone to a new level and is ready to step up now and he and Rodrico will leave for Queensland tomorrow.
“He is well into his preparation so he has been able to do plenty of work so missing the Grand Prix shouldn’t be an issue.”
Mackintosh is the $4 equal favourite alongside South Australian Derby winner Howard Be Thy Name with Encosta Line at $7, Rodrico $14 and Multifacets $26.
Waller won the 2013 Queensland Derby with Hawkspur who is entered for the Group Two Brisbane Cup (2400m) along with stablemates Index Linked and Junoob.
“Index Linked and Junoob will run and possibly Hawkspur who is also entered for Flemington,” Waller said.
“Realistically they are all in the twilight of their careers and need to improve to win the Brisbane Cup.
“So they have to shape up but the main thing is they are all healthy and sound.”
New Zealand trainer Tony Pike will decide after Provocative gallops on Tuesday whether the filly run in the Derby or the Queensland Oaks which has been added to the program after Saturday’s wash-out at Eagle Farm.
