Dezignation eyed as upset pick by schiller in Australian derby

Briasa, the title defender in the T J Smith Stakes, stands as Tyler Schiller's most prominent Group One assignment on day one of The Championships at Randwick, yet he feels his other mounts are somewhat ignored.

This capable jockey will also ride Steparty ($19) trained by Paul Preusker in the Doncaster Mile (1600m) and Matt Smith's Dezignation ($151) in the ATC Australian Derby (2400m), considering them both capable of pulling off surprises.

Dezignation may be the rank outsider among Derby entrants, but he hit the line hard for fifth against Saturday foe Storm Leopard ($5) in the Tulloch Stakes (2000m), and sets himself apart by having proven stamina at the trip unlike most competitors.

The jockey piloted the gelding for the first time last start and left with high regard.

"He sneaks in off a really good run in the Tulloch," Schiller said.

"He got back and was taken off the bridle a long way from home, and he stayed on super strong. He just needed a bit further, which he is going to get this weekend.

"As long as he backs up, he's going to have a really good chance, and he's got a lovely barrier compared to his outside barrier the other day.

"If it's a good staying test, he is going to be in the finish."

In a parallel fashion, Steparty remains overlooked amid the hype surrounding outstanding filly Sheza Alibi for much of the Doncaster Mile spotlight.

Having notched several Group 1 minor placings, this five-year-old has tested Sydney waters before, notably runner-up in the 2024 The Ingham (1600m) on the Doncaster layout.

With a pair of triumphs in Tasmania back in February, Steparty arrives for Saturday's key race off a solid fifth behind Tom Kitten in the All-Star Mile (1600m) at Flemington and benefits from stall six for a efficient run.

"He's a really nice horse. He's got a great attitude and he's another one flying under the radar," Schiller said.

"He got beaten a length and a bit in the All-Star Mile off a tough, wide run, and he's going as good as ever.

"Fingers crossed, barrier six is a lovely barrier in the Doncaster. Hopefully he can bounce and get a bit of cover somewhere and save himself for late. He drops a lot in weight, so I think he might surprise a few people."

In his last three weight-for-age appearances, Steparty has toted 59kg and now meets Randwick with 51.5kg.

A first Australian Derby victory and repeat Doncaster Mile success elude Schiller, who won the latter two years prior aboard Celestial Legend.

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