2025 Warrnambool Cup stepping stone for True Marvel

Though True Marvel kicked off his career over hurdles with a win at Hamilton in 2023, it’s been on the flat where he’s continued to make his mark, including a creditable eighth in last year’s Melbourne Cup.

Trainer Matthew Smith is preparing the stayer for another Cup campaign, beginning with the Listed Warrnambool Cup (2350m) on Thursday.

He’ll then look to the Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) at Flemington and the Brisbane Cup (3200m) at Eagle Farm as key targets to qualify and condition the gelding.

“He just needs two miles, but you need to get them fit and there’s not too many options for those sorts of horses,” Smith said.

After a ligament injury derailed plans for a 2024 prep, True Marvel returns to action for just his third run back following 16 months off.

“We thought that was probably it as when they get to that age, it’s hard to get them back,” Smith said. “But we did the rehab and gave him plenty of time.”

“He’s sound and going well, he just needs to get out in trip.”

Smith believes his most recent effort was a sign that fitness is building.

“His last run was the sort of run he puts in when he’s starting to get fit, in a race that was too short,” he said. “If the rain hits Warrnambool, he’ll be strong at the end.”

With Headwall recently finishing second in The Quokka in Perth, Smith has been clocking the air miles but will leave Thursday’s task to local trainer Matthew Williams.

“He’ll then come home after he runs on Thursday, and we’ll take him back down for the Andrew Ramsden,” Smith added. “Travelling doesn’t worry him.”