Imperialist on track for the 2025 Queensland Derby
Imperialist remains in the Queensland Derby picture after landing a surprise win in Saturday’s Rough Habit Plate (2000m) at Doomben, though trainer Chris Waller admits the gelding still has questions to answer over the Derby distance of 2400 metres.
The son of Churchill caused a major upset, saluting at $61 with online betting sites after a lacklustre effort in the Queensland Guineas. However, a gear change and a tactical shift paid dividends as Tommy Berry guided him to a front-running victory.
“He brought some good form to Sydney from Melbourne then just didn’t quite stay the 2400 in the Derby,” Waller said.
“We’ve got a little bit of concern about the 2400.
“I think the Churchills are more speedier horses so that’s the challenge we’ve got to deal with in the next two weeks.”
Waller was pleased with the improvement, noting the blinkers didn’t suit last time out, prompting their removal and a change in tactics.
“We tried blinkers (in the Guineas) and it just didn’t work. He missed the start,” he said.
“So we took them off and suggested to Tommy we ride him a bit closer. He had a nice soft time up in front and it just sparked a bit of interest.”
Berry, who delivered a composed ride, is optimistic about the Derby but acknowledged the staying test ahead.
“If he says he will get him to stay again, he will get him to stay,” Berry said.
“He is the best staying trainer that’s going around.”
Following his breakthrough win, Imperialist’s Derby odds shortened significantly from $101 to $15, with King Of Thunder holding the top line at $6 after placing third in the Rough Habit.
To explore betting options for the Queensland Derby and follow form lines, visit trusted Australian betting sites.
More Racing News
Sir Kingsford's local Cups campaign begins at Morphettville Parks
A pursuit of a Melbourne Cup start has been abandoned for the South Australian galloper Sir Kingsford, who will now focus his attention on local Cup races.After securing second place in the Port Adelaide Cup at Morphettville in May, Sir Kingsford then travelled to Flemington to compete in the Andrew...
Nearco Frod seeks fifth win in a row at Sandown
The training partnership of Tony and Calvin McEvoy possesses a thorough understanding of equine development.Last year, after a period spent in the warmer climate of Queensland, Half Yours returned to claim a double in the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups.Half Yours is once again bound for the Melbourne Cup, with a...
Signature Scent primed for Carlyon Stakes challenge
A 1000m dash at Stakes level has been on the radar for Signature Scent for some time, according to the Ciaron Maher stable.Notwithstanding a recent failure to place in a three-year-old event, the stable sees no impediment to her contesting the Group 3 Carlyon Stakes (1000m) at Sandown this Saturday.Having...
Idle Flyer's Spring Carnival Path Tested in Winx Stakes
Trainer Matthew Smith is keen to assess Idle Flyer's capabilities against top competition as she begins her spring campaign in the Winx Stakes at Randwick, with the Cox Plate looming as a potential target.After a dominant performance in the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m) in the autumn,...
Apocalyptic primed for Randwick return, says Berry
Just as Ninja made a statement with his Missile Stakes win two weeks ago, stablemate Apocalyptic will be on a mission to do the same when she launches her campaign in the Toy Show Quality at Randwick.Dominant in the Princess Series as a spring three-year-old, Apocalyptic performed below expectations in...
Almairac's Adelaide venture after frustrating draws
Despite a string of unfavourable barrier draws in the past week, trainer Cliff Brown is taking a calculated risk by sending Almairac to Adelaide.Almairac has faced wide gates at recent starts, including last Saturday in Sydney and Wednesday at Sandown. On Saturday, the gelding will again jump from a challenging...
Screen Icon's prospects brightened by Rosebud result
Trainer John Thompson received a positive sign from the Rosebud race, even without a runner, which has bolstered his confidence for Screen Icon's upcoming appearance in the Silver Shadow Stakes at Randwick.The recent running of the Rosebud saw Chilly Girl emerge victorious, finishing a half-length ahead of Screen Icon in...
Ceolwulf poised for spring resurgence
Trainer Joe Pride is optimistic about the return to form for Ceolwulf, a four-time Group One winner, after an abbreviated autumn campaign.The star miler, who had his spring campaign cut short after just two starts last time in due to foot concerns and a minor bleed, will make his reappearance...
Tennessee aiming for seventh consecutive win
Ciaron Maher's stable possesses a remarkable ability to nurture older mares, bringing out their best performances.One can point to the examples of Bella Nipotina and Pride Of Jenni, who continued to perform at a high level throughout their careers.Tennessee Bound, while perhaps not in the same calibre, boasts a notable...
Rosehill trials feature Headwall and emerging talent
While the Winx Stakes contest between Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi is capturing attention this week, Rosehill barrier trials are also a significant drawcard as several equine stars intensify their preparations for their return to racing.Headwall, a contender for The Everest, will undertake his third trial over 900 metres in...