Ceolwulf's Epsom Handicap bid hinges on forecast rain for Joe Pride
Joe Pride anticipates having two contenders in the upcoming Group 1 Epsom Handicap, with the forecast of intermittent rain over the next seven days favouring the start of his star galloper Ceolwulf. The prominent Randwick mile race has been a long-term objective for stablemate Attica, while Pride has kept his options open for Ceolwulf, whose principal aim is the King Charles III Stakes (1600m) on October 17.
Ceolwulf secured the Epsom two years ago en route to his maiden King Charles triumph. He followed a similar path 12 months ago, finishing sixth in the Epsom before claiming back-to-back victories in the Everest Day feature.
"I reckon we'll have two runners, Attica and Ceolwulf. I'm confident now with the rain around and a bit more at the end of the week," Pride said.
"I was happy to go straight to the King Charles if I needed to, but I'm also happy to give him the 'prep' I've given him for the last two years to get to the King Charles, which is running in the Epsom. I think we're going to get the opportunity to do that. I haven't locked it in yet, but I'd suggest we will."
Ceolwulf carries 59kg in the Epsom, and no horse has carried that weight or more to victory since Super Impose succeeded with 61kg in 1991. Pride is fully aware Ceolwulf faces a significant challenge and is hoping the gelding draws a reasonable gate at Tuesday's barrier draw to ease the task.
A rain-affected track on Saturday will also be a key factor, with wet weather predicted for the latter part of the week. "You don't want to draw outside fifteen because he'd be going right back and giving away a ridiculous start," Pride explained. "Between five and ten, you're probably two or three lengths closer. It's a race we've used successfully. He won it two years ago, but he won it with about 54 kilos so winning it with 59, it's not beyond him because he's such a good horse, but it would want to be a bit of a wet track."
Ceolwulf is currently priced at $15 in pre-post markets, which are jointly led by the Chris Waller-trained Autumn Boy and the undefeated New Zealander Well Written, both at $3.50. Attica is rated a $6 chance.
Punters considering the Epsom Handicap can explore the latest racing odds at online bookmakers.
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