St Gotthard bypasses Gosford as Waller keeps juveniles strong
The prominent trainer Chris Waller has decided to send his $2.7 million purchase St Gotthard, a colt, past Gosford towards a stakes assignment on the Gold Coast, but he'll keep a powerful lineup in the juvenile event at the isolated meeting.
Having claimed victory on debut amid midweek fare at Warwick Farm a month ago, St Gotthard eyes a start in the Group 3 Ken Russell Memorial Classic (1200m) this Saturday in Queensland, holding $3.80 favouritism.
He dominated early wagering for the Win $100K @ The Coast Raceday 2YO Handicap (1200m) over the Central Coast circuit, but Waller seeks listed quality for the entire brother to Group 1 conqueror Switzerland.
"At this stage, St Gotthard is going to go to the Gold Coast," Waller said.
"He's a nice horse and he's gone the right way since winning."
St Gotthard's absence opens the door for four Waller youngsters at Gosford - Zynaro, Quarterback, Whitehall and Air Of Solace.
The latter-named arrives for his initial NSW appearance after a third-placing effort across 1000m at Mornington, holding ground solidly, while Quarterback builds on a small stakes placing from Kensington.
Both Whitehall and Air Of Solace were off the mark at their first runs, though Waller looks for progress.
"Zynardo is coming up from Melbourne. He's been here for a week or so and has settled in really well. He ran a good placing in his only Melbourne run," Waller said.
"Whitehall has drawn a bit wide. He's a good horse but he just needs a bit of experience, while Quarterback ran well on debut and will appreciate the extra distance.
"Air Of Solace, he blew the start at Hawkesbury on debut, but he has been back to the trials since and he trialled well.
"They are all nice, progressive horses."
Priory Park, under the care of Annabel and Rob Archibald, stands ready to seize favouritism without St Gotthard after his breakthrough win in the Star Kingdom Stakes (1000m) at Muswellbrook last time.
From Bjorn Baker's operation, I Am Dirty is primed following a gritty midfield finish despite a wide barrier behind capable Bangkok Hottie at Randwick in his lone start.
Visit the online bookmakers to find the top betting markets for the race at Gosford.
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