Freshman colt poised for three-year-old debut in Rosehill's Heritage Stakes

An early indication of Freshman's standing among the three-year-old ranks will be provided when he makes his debut in the Listed Heritage Stakes at Rosehill.

Trainer Bryce Heys, known for his judicious placement of runners, has been persuaded by the small field of eight and the inherent ability and progress observed in the colt at home.

While aware of the significant challenge Freshman faces in a Listed race at his first start, Heys anticipates the colt will acquit himself well.

"The reason we've always liked him is the way he works," Heys said. "When you teach him something, he's always wanted to come to the party. It's obviously a big ask on Saturday, but he's in great order and he's a lovely horse."

By Wild Ruler, Freshman originated in New Zealand and was procured for $380,000 from the 2025 Karaka sale. He participated in two trials leading up to Saturday's Heritage Stakes (1100m), winning his most recent trial, though he did pull for rein early. Heys attributed this to a lack of pace in the heat rather than poor manners.

"They went very slow in that last trial. It wasn't a true reflection," Heys explained. "He will come back off the bridle. He has always been a touch immature, but he's always had a sharp level of ability and just physically gotten stronger each time he's been in work."

In addition to Freshman, Heys has the lightly-raced Banjora entered for the TAB Handicap (1100m). However, a final decision regarding the gelding's resumption from an awkward draw will be deferred until race morning.

Banjora, who triumphed in his initial three starts, subsequently secured a placing in the Gosford heat of the Provincial-Midway Championships (1200m) before finishing fourth to Lord Of Biscay in the Wildcard (1400m). Lord Of Biscay went on to win the Final.

"I'm not in a hurry to get him started. He's obviously drawn a bit tricky," Heys commented. "It's just the fact he's first-up and starting first-up quite higher in grade than he has previously, so I'm mindful of that, despite his ability. We've got him in there as if we're going to run, but I haven't committed to that yet."

Heys described Banjora as a sturdy gelding who would benefit from racing, noting that his preparation has been uninterrupted. "We love the horse, but I don't have a grand plan for him," he stated. "I just feel he needs a little bit of racing. He may get himself somewhere this time around, but I just want him to have a good 'prep' where he sets himself up for a really nice autumn."

Aaron Bullock has been engaged to ride both of Heys' contenders.

The Heritage Stakes looks an intriguing contest, with many looking to place bets via online bookmakers.