Nomadic set for distance test in Sydney spring carnival

While star mare Sheza Alibi is set for her first venture beyond a mile this weekend, her younger half-brother, Nomadic, will also be tested over an extended trip.

The latter is slated to compete in the Sydney spring carnival at Rosehill, with aspirations of a potential Group One start.

Nomadic is entered for the Gloaming Stakes (1800m) on Saturday. A strong showing here would position him well for a shot at the Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick two weeks later.

This follows his maiden win at Kembla Grange, where the three-year-old faced older competitors. He settled prominently and displayed resilience to defeat Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott's charge, Van Hoven.

"He had to dig deep to fight off Gai's horse, but I think he went better ridden more positively and put up on speed," commented John Thompson.

"They beat the rest of them a fair way.

"We'll try him over a bit further and see how he handles it."

Thompson is keen for Nomadic to race forward in the Gloaming Stakes, which has drawn a field of 12. Notable entries include the Ming Dynasty Quality victor Persian Wonder and the Dulcify Stakes quinella finishers, Wonka and Genesis Runner.

Although Nomadic faces a step up in class, he previously secured a placing behind Southend and Persian Wonder in the Group 3 Baillieu (1400m) during the autumn. He also ran fifth to Fireball in the Group 1 Champagne Stakes (1600m), without being disgraced.

Just as Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman are exploring middle-distance capabilities with Sheza Alibi in Saturday's Might And Power Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield, Thompson expressed uncertainty regarding Nomadic's capacity to handle Saturday's longer journey. However, his recent performances indicate he might be a stayer.

"He looks like it. Whether he is or not, I don't know," Thompson said.

"But he's in great order. He came through that run like he hadn't had a run, so fingers crossed.

"He's a valuable colt if he comes good."

Sheza Alibi and Nomadic share the same dam, Sheza Gypsy, a mare by Shaft who achieved six wins, all in country New South Wales.

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