Darby Munro Stakes the plan for Hidden Motive

Nathan Doyle, the trainer, acknowledges slim prospects of holding onto his Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) success, since Hidden Motive ranks 26th among entrants.

Victorious last year via Private Harry in that race, Hidden Motive as an 88-rated contender would depend on numerous scratches to squeeze into the 14-runner limit with six standbys.

Rather than that, Hidden Motive targets the Listed Darby Munro Stakes (1200m), potentially clashing with Beadman and Inkaruna who got the better of him initially in the Listed Fireball Stakes (1100m) and sit 24th and 25th for The Galaxy.

Doyle indicated a desire to edge into The Galaxy carrying 50kg but reckons Rosehill will be ideal no matter what.

"The Darby Munro is the only real option with him," Doyle said.

"I'd say we'll be struggling to get into The Galaxy, but if he did make the field I'd definitely have a crack with him because he's on speed horse with no weight on his back."

Doyle looks for enhancement second-up after Hidden Motive bested Beadman in the Spring's Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) at the same trip as the Darby Munro.

"He rails like a greyhound and flicks on corners, I think that's his best attribute," Doyle said.

"He can ride a hot tempo, flick, then just maintain so Rosehill is going to suit him down to the ground."

"He's got a good attitude towards things. He's a good eating horse, he's pretty casual around the stables, so he doesn't overexert himself, which allows him to stay up continue on as a racehorse and put his best foot forward."

Hidden Motive, who appeared in the Breeder's Plate young, excels in prolonged preps, aiding Doyle's hope for sharpening up as the series advances.

"He's always a big roly-poly horse, so he takes a bit of time to come to hand," Doyle said.

"That's probably shown in his last preparations as well, third up when he won the Roman Consul was probably his best run.

"But we've had him in quite a while this time in. I think he's probably more forward than last preparation which he'll probably need to be, taking on that class.

"We're really pleased with the horse and how he's come on from that first up run."

In Darby Munro all-in markets, Hidden Motive is quoted at $9, while $15 prevails in Group 2 Arrowfield Sprint (1200m) betting, Doyle noting April 11th as the expected third start.

Check the online bookmakers for the latest betting markets for the race featuring Hidden Motive in the Darby Munro Stakes.