Ceolwulf on track for 2025 Winx Stakes return
Ceolwulf sharpened up for a big spring campaign with an eye-catching trial at Warwick Farm on Friday as he prepares to launch in the Winx Stakes.
The Joe Pride-trained gelding was ridden quietly in his first trial last month, but this time, with Chad Schofield back aboard, he was allowed to stretch out and close off strongly to finish second behind stablemate Private Eye.
Pride admitted he learned from past campaigns. “I probably let him do too much last time in trials,” he said. “This prep, I’ve held him back a little, but today we wanted him to blow out a bit more.”
Ceolwulf will resume in the $1 million Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on August 23 – the first Group 1 of the Sydney spring season.
Among the key rivals expected are Via Sistina, Fangirl, and Aeliana from the Chris Waller camp, while Ciaron Maher is likely to run Light Infantry Man, Gringotts, and Another Wil.
Ceolwulf had a breakthrough spring last year with major wins in the Epsom Handicap and King Charles III Stakes, before a mixed autumn campaign. But Pride believes he’s matured and is ready to peak again.
Also at the trials, Kiwi Derby hero Willydoit and Caulfield Cup runner-up Buckaroo showed they’re progressing well, while Melbourne Cup contender Sir Delius put in a strong effort in a 1200m heat, finishing third behind Nkosi.
If you're keen to bet on Ceolwulf or other spring stars, check out Australia’s leading betting sites and offers right here.
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