Sutton eyes maiden Valley success in G2 Alister Clark Stakes

A lot can happen in a year, and for Dominic Sutton, it has been a remarkable ride.

Just over 12 months ago, Sutton stepped out on his own after working as an assistant to Leon and Troy Corstens. Since then, his career has skyrocketed.

Feroce was the horse that put him on the map, delivering his first win, his first city success, and most recently, his first Group 1 victory in the Australian Guineas.

But another horse, Detroit City, has also been instrumental in Sutton’s rise. The gelding handed him his first Flemington win and is now being aimed at an even bigger target—the Group 2 Alister Clark Stakes (2040m) at Moonee Valley.

To prepare, Detroit City had a hit-out at The Valley to refresh his familiarity with the track.

“He’s had a look around here before, and he seemed comfortable last time,” Sutton said.

Detroit City ended his spring campaign with a fourth-place finish in the Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m), showing promise over the track and distance.

Saturday’s run will be an important test, as Sutton is eyeing a potential trip to Sydney for the Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) on April 5.

“This will be his first step toward proving he can stay further,” Sutton explained.

“I think he can handle 2000m with no problem, but we need to see him finishing off strongly before considering the Derby.”

As for his below-par performance in the Australian Guineas, Sutton isn’t too concerned.

“That run wasn’t really what we were targeting—it was more of a stepping stone,” he said.

“Hopefully, he’s in perfect shape to show what he can do this weekend.”