European import Canberra Legend will relish the extra trip at Newcastle Saturday
He was well-supported when seventh at his Australian debut and the aptly-named Canberra Legend will appreciate the 2300m staying test in the $300,000 The Beauford at Newcastle on Saturday.
By Great Britain stallion Australia, the four-year-old just faded late in the Rosehill Cup two weeks back and trainer Chris Waller believes he is now ready for the extra 300m in distance.
Owned by prominent racing identity Bon Ho, the entire had been competing in Group 2 and 3 races in the northern hemisphere and has come to Waller in good order.
“I think (former trainer) James Ferguson just couldn’t find the right 2400m type race for him and I think he’ll be better over this trip.
“He’s in great condition, he’s fit and I think he’ll run a good race.”
Canberra Legend was backed into $4.20 at his local debut in the Rosehill Cup won by Wild Planet, and raced on pace before just running out of puff in the later stages. With that run now under the belt Waller believes he has come on since that hit-out.
“James Ferguson has done amazing job with these horses, the stablemate (Land Legend) won when it came to Sydney for its first start a few weeks back,” Waller said.
“This horse ran midfield, was okay only beaten two lengths. He’ll love stepping up to 2300m and he hasn’t put a foot wrong since joining the stable.”
The market is again siding with the European stayer, with Canberra Legend heading up the betting at $4.40 with online bookmakers as of Friday afternoon.
Paul Perry’s Sky Lab is on the second line at $5, with the consistent John O’Shea galloper Stroke Of Luck next at the $6 quote.
