Chelmsford Stakes a likely starting point for 2025 Melbourne Cup fancy
Sir Delius is set to take aim at the Melbourne Cup after resuming in a quiet 1000-metre barrier trial at Warwick Farm, with his trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott yet to lock in his exact spring path.
The Group 1 placegetter, an $11 equal favourite with betting sites, impressed his handlers as he builds towards November.
“It’s still very early in his preparation, but he’s come back looking terrific,” Bott said. “We could see him kick off in the Chelmsford Stakes or a similar race, but there’s plenty of time to make that call.”
Sir Delius made his only Australian start in May, winning the Group 3 Chairman’s Handicap (2000m) at Doomben, before being spelled to target the Cup.
Stablemate Alalcance also stepped out in the same trial as she heads towards a spring aimed at the Group 1 Metropolitan (2400m) in October.
“She probably just came to the end of her run last prep when she failed in the Sydney Cup, but she’s capable of improving this campaign,” Bott said.
Another standout for the stable was unbeaten filly Agarwood, who dominated her 822-metre trial and is heading for the Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) on August 23.
“She’s come back even better and shapes as our leading Princess Series contender,” Bott said.
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