Second shot at Derby glory awaits Observer at Randwick
The task of getting a three-year-old to optimal condition for two 2400m Derbies in a single season is tough, according to Ciaron Maher, though the expert stayer trainer believes it's possible.
The son of Ghaiyyath, Observer, aims to secure the Victoria Derby – Australian Derby double by tackling the 2400m Group 1 showdown at Randwick this Saturday.
In the 2021-22 season, Maher pulled off the double courtesy of Hitotsu, while Chris Waller readied Riff Rocket for it in 2023-24.
Observer mirrored Hitotsu by taking out the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) at Flemington; however, post that win, Hitotsu proceeded straight to the Derby, whereas Observer competed over 2000m, ending third in the Group 1 Rosehill Guineas on March 21.
Trainer Maher hasn't wavered in his belief in Observer, noting the colt's ongoing refinement in racing conduct, with the 2400m distance this Saturday being spot-on.
On Saturday, leading Australian jockey James McDonald assumes the ride, succeeding Craig Williams who was aboard at Rosehill.
"Back up to the trip, that's what he's bred for," Maher said.
"He came through his run really well, and he's ticking over pretty well.
"Craig probably just went a touch slow the other day. If he had his time again, I would say he probably would have gone a bit quicker.
"But he rallied well, and he was good through the line, so I wouldn't read too much into that last run.
"I suppose getting out to that trip twice is a bit of a feat (for a three-year-old), but we've done it before."
One year before Hitotsu, Maher triumphed in the Australian Derby with Explosive Jack, who subsequently won the South Australian Derby at Morphettville and was third in the Queensland Derby at Eagle Farm.
For Saturday, Observer sports the topweight saddlecloth number one and barrier 12 among 13 starters.
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