Young Werther is set to kick off his campaign at Caulfield Heath this Saturday, with a strong performance potentially paving the way for a shot at the $1 million Perth Cup (2400m) on New Year’s Day.
Trainer Danny O’Brien remains optimistic about the gelding’s readiness, even though the 1500-metre trip may not be ideal for the stayer’s first outing since the Caulfield Cup.
“We’ve got to have a look at him there on Saturday to see if his fitness is right back to the level he’ll need to be to go a mile-and-a-half on New Year’s Day,” O’Brien told RSN927.
O’Brien reflected on a challenging spring campaign for Young Werther, citing unfavorable track conditions as a key factor in his underwhelming results.
“We were frustrated with his spring because he’s really a horse that performs his best on Good tracks and he struck wet tracks at his past two runs in the Turnbull and Caulfield Cup.” O’Brien explained.
The trainer has since maintained a steady preparation for the gelding, who will be racing on a firmer surface this weekend.
“We’ve just ticked him over since and he’ll get a firm surface there tomorrow.” he said.
O’Brien indicated that while a trip to Perth is not yet set in stone, a strong showing at Caulfield Heath would be a significant step forward.
“There are still a few stars that have to align with the transport but ideally, if he runs well tomorrow, he’ll be on his way to Perth.” O’Brien added.
Young Werther showed glimpses of his ability earlier in the spring, notably defeating eventual Caulfield Cup winner Duke De Sessa over 2000 metres in his first-up run. He followed that with a commendable fifth-place finish behind Cox Plate winner Via Sistina.
With his fitness progressing and conditions looking favorable, O’Brien and connections are hopeful that Young Werther can make a strong impression this weekend and set his sights on Perth’s prestigious New Year’s Day feature.
