North England on track for G2 Todman Stakes

After a brief setback two weeks ago, trainer Adrian Bott remains optimistic that North England will be back in action at Randwick this Saturday.

Bott, together with co-trainer Gai Waterhouse, is focused on ensuring the talented colt stays on course for the Golden Slipper. His next step is the $300,000 Group 2 Todman Stakes (1200m).

North England was originally scheduled to return in the Group 2 Silver Slipper Stakes (1100m) on February 22, but a concerning blood test led to his withdrawal. However, Bott is confident in the colt’s condition moving forward.

“Everything we’ve monitored suggests he’s in top shape and progressing well,” Bott said.

“As long as this week goes smoothly, he should be good to go in the Todman.”

The Todman Stakes is a key Golden Slipper lead-up event, run alongside the Reisling Stakes for fillies. Waterhouse has successfully used this route for four of her eight Golden Slipper winners, including North England’s sire, Farnan.

To keep North England race-fit, he completed an exhibition gallop at Randwick last Saturday.

The colt’s last competitive appearance was a commanding win in the $1 million Golden Gift on November 9, following his third-place finish in the Group 3 Breeders’ Plate. Bott believes those performances provide a solid platform despite the missed Silver Slipper start.

“We had to adjust his schedule slightly, but he hasn’t missed any key work,” Bott said.

“Instead of resuming over 1100 metres, he’ll step up to 1200m first-up. He’s fit and should improve off this run.”

With his Golden Slipper berth already secured, North England’s preparation has been carefully managed to peak at the right time.

Saturday’s races are expected to influence the Golden Slipper betting market, with Wodeton and Beiwacht among North England’s Todman rivals, while Tempted leads the charge in the Reisling Stakes.