Star race horses down to trial at Randwick

The traditional gap between Spring and Autumn appears almost non-existent, with several of the nation’s headline horses set to trial at Randwick on Thursday.

Via Sistina, Sir Delius, Autumn Glow and Aeliana are among the big names preparing to kick off their Autumn campaigns on the Kensington track.

Autumn Glow, hailed as one of Australia’s most exciting gallopers, will feature in the opening 850-metre heat alongside stablemate Wodeton, Flight Stakes winner Apocalyptic and Turnbull Stakes winner Sir Delius.

James McDonald will partner both Autumn Glow and Via Sistina, with Via Sistina set to contest the third 850-metre heat alongside Aeliana, Lindermann and Golden Slipper winner Marhoona.

While interest surrounds Waller’s strong hand, much of the spotlight will fall on Sir Delius following his interrupted Spring Carnival.

The gelding was ruled out of the Melbourne Cup and Cox Plate after failing veterinary scans, despite heading markets for both races.

A Racing Victoria embargo subsequently prevented Sir Delius from racing in Victoria for the remainder of spring.

That embargo does not automatically apply interstate, and New South Wales authorities have allowed Sir Delius to trial as part of his return to racing.

With Autumn Carnival futures already available through major betting platforms, the upcoming trials carry added intrigue.

Co-trainer Adrian Bott said the emphasis would be on giving Sir Delius a quiet reintroduction following the disappointment of spring.

“He’s going to the trials on Thursday,” Bott said.

“He won’t be asked much, he’s just going for a quiet sort of trial.

“He’ll be out on a few occasions before we see him step out to the races, sort of fitting in line with what we saw from him last prep.

“But he seems to be back in good order.”

The post Sir Delius down to trial first appeared on Just Horse Racing.