Peter Young Stakes suits Chris Waller's Birdman and Buckaroo
Chris Waller's Birdman, now in his third Australian preparation, might finally reveal the promise that prompted his owners to secure him as a juvenile in Ireland.
A victor in his opening pair of long-distance races, the gelding was snapped up by owners such as Ozzie Kheir and John O'Neill with Melbourne Cup aspirations in mind.
Although absent from last year's Melbourne Cup, Birdman's two starts this time in could signal a path to November's renewal.
Following victory in the Blamey Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on February 28, the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield on Saturday is Birdman's next assignment.
Ben Melham, the jockey, commented that the gelding's latest two runs demonstrate complete adaptation to local conditions, with more to come.
"It took him a little while to settle in and we're starting to see the best of him now," Melham said.
"I feel he's gone to a new level this preparation and can continue that upward trajectory.
"He's a happy horse and seems to have really fitted in here now."
Aiming for the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington on March 28, the Peter Young Stakes acts as a key intermediate for Birdman, joined by yard companion Buckaroo.
After bypassing last week's All-Star Mile at Flemington due to traces of mucus found via scope, Buckaroo enters the Peter Young Stakes on Saturday.
Jye McNeil resumes the ride on Buckaroo with Mark Zahra suspended.
The rider steered the gelding to second in last month's Futurity Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield prior to taking Leica Lucy for the All-Star Mile.
On Tuesday morning at Caulfield, Buckaroo galloped strongly, leaving McNeil impressed by his recovery from the minor hiccup.
"He felt amazing," McNeil said.
"He towed me throughout his work. He was really sharp and he seems in great order.
"He was free in his action and pulled up fine after the gallop, so there's no indication of there being anything wrong with him.
"It's great to get the opportunity on him second-up and the rise is distance to 1800 metres is going to be right up his alley.
"He seems to love it at Caulfield and I'm excited to get the chance to ride him again."
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