St Leger Stakes runners still in Melbourne Cup calculations

Klondike, a former European import, has not followed a conventional Australian preparation for a staying event, but his trainers maintain confidence in his fitness and stamina.

The gelding will contest Saturday's St Leger Stakes (2600m) in only his second start in 16 months, having been sidelined by a tendon injury subsequent to last year's Doomben Cup (2000m).

Nevertheless, the extensive, gradual rehabilitation and fitness program undertaken, combined with his natural athletic prowess, has co-trainer Tom Charlton convinced of Klondike's readiness.

He enters Saturday's race off a respectable fifth place in the Kingston Town Stakes (2000m) on September 19, after connections deliberately bypassed other engagements to target this particular race.

"We felt he didn't need much racing. He was fit, and the space of four weeks to a 2600-metre race was what he was looking for," Charlton said.

"He was quite forward for his first run. He's had a long build-up of training for his rehab and preparation."

"The way he ran and went through the line, going two weeks to a 'Metrop' wasn't right, and we felt four weeks between runs he'd be best suited."

Klondike is set to be joined by two stablemates, the 2024 St Leger winner Athabascan and Sam Hawkens, in the lineup for the St Leger.

All three remain within the consideration set for the Melbourne Cup, though they must produce a strong performance at Randwick to be considered contenders for Australia's most iconic race.

"They're all in the Cup, and if they were to perform well, you'd definitely consider it," Charlton confirmed.

"They're not leading hopes at the moment, but if anything put their hand up, we'd jump at it, particularly with Klondike."

Klondike is currently the stable's favoured runner in the St Leger at $8.50, with eight-year-old Athabascan at $16 and Sam Hawkens at $26, although Charlton acknowledges each has a chance.

"Athabascan was excellent in a slowly run Metropolitan. He has won this race before and you wouldn't know his age, he's such a lovely horse to have at home," Charlton noted.

"Sam Hawkens was better the other day and the extra 200 metres, particularly here at Randwick, will really suit him. The rain will suit him as well."

Consider exploring online bookmakers for the best betting markets for the St Leger Stakes.