Benedetta glowing ahead of 2025 Kingsford Smith Cup
Chris Waller is banking on promising stayer Kadavar to continue a trend of emerging stars stepping up in the Lord Mayors Cup (2000m), a race that has proven a springboard for Group 1 performers in recent years.
The gelding enjoyed a standout campaign last preparation, capping a winning hat-trick with a victory in the Christmas Cup (2400m), where he defeated subsequent stakes performer Alalcance.
Waller’s assistant Charlie Duckworth said Kadavar could be aimed at major spring features, including the Melbourne Cup, depending on how he progresses.
“He might not need to go through the full winter campaign,” Duckworth said. “He could have a couple of runs and then be prepped for the spring. His potential is clear.”
After resuming with a strong seventh in the Scone Cup (1600m), Kadavar steps up to 2000m this weekend. With Rachel King committed to Brisbane, Kerrin McEvoy takes the mount.
“Rachel was extremely happy with his first-up effort. With a better barrier and extra distance, he should be even more effective,” Duckworth noted.
Waller has also entered First Light, Speycaster, and Etna Rosso in the Lord Mayors Cup. However, Etna Rosso is also a chance to run in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2400m) at Eagle Farm.
Speycaster has underwhelmed in Melbourne and returns to Sydney hoping for a reset. “He’s had some excuses, and we’re hoping a return home brings improvement,” Duckworth said.
Newly arrived Kiwi hoop Wiremu Pinn will ride Speycaster as part of his three-month tenure with the Waller stable in Sydney.
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