Ceolwulf leads home big guns in trial

Ceolwulf has sharpened up for his upcoming return in the Apollo Stakes with an impressive barrier trial victory at Warwick Farm, signaling a promising autumn campaign ahead.

The dual Group 1 winner dictated the tempo in Thursday’s 1000m heat, cruising to the line unchallenged to defeat Via Sistina, a likely rival in the Apollo Stakes (1400m) in two weeks' time.

Fangirl produced a strong late finish to secure third, just edging out 2022 New Zealand Derby champion Asterix, who also delivered a notable performance.

The trial was one of three conducted on the course proper, featuring several high-profile Sydney horses. Among them was Linebacker, who finished a close second to Bacchanalia. This was his final public trial before his expected first-up run in the Eskimo Prince Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on February 8.

“He did a little bit more today because he’s got to run on Saturday week,” said co-trainer John O’Shea.

“He had a burn around to blow out a few cobwebs.”

A proven Group 1 performer, Linebacker returns to racing as a gelding after being difficult to manage as a colt during the spring. O’Shea has observed a clear shift in his behavior and hopes the change translates to improved performances on the track, with the Randwick Guineas on the radar for the three-year-old.

“It has definitely made him easier to contend with and it’s a lot safer for my staff,” he said.

“But it would appear he’s a happy horse in a good frame of mind.”

Kerrin McEvoy was in the saddle for Linebacker’s trial and will retain the ride when he resumes at Randwick.

In another of the feature trials, Flight Stakes winner Lady Shenandoah secured a stylish victory over her stablemate Switzerland, while Melbourne Cup fourth-place finisher Zardozi finished well in fifth, stretching out strongly late.