Godolphin is poised to unveil a handful of its biggest stars at another important set of barrier trials at Randwick on Monday, although its major drawcard is even closer to a race return.
Trainer James Cummings confirmed Caulfield Guineas winner and Cox Plate runner-up Anamoe is likely to resume in the Group 2 Expressway Stakes (1200m) at Rosehill on Saturday having pleased the stable since his return to work.
“He had a good break and he looks like he has filled out nicely, ready for a busy autumn,” Cummings said.
“We will probably see him kick off next weekend in the Expressway.”
Fellow Godolphin three-year-old Paulele, top mare Colette and stable stalwart Cascadian are all down to trial at Randwick on Monday as they ramp up their respective preparations.
Paulele captured the Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes in the spring and was second to subsequent Group 1 winner Home Affairs in the Heritage Stakes before finishing down the track behind the same horse in the Coolmore Stud Stakes.
He is likely to kick off his campaign on Saturday week in the Eskimo Prince Stakes (1200m) at Randwick and Cummings is hopeful he can continue to progress.
“He is a brilliant colt,” he said.
“It would be good to see him in an Eskimo Prince first-up and he could be capable of producing a really big sprint performance this autumn. That’s what we’re looking for from him.”
Group 1 J J Atkins winner Converge will also be in action at Monday’s barrier trials and is likely to face a first-up clash with Paulele in the Eskimo Prince.
The three-year-old’s spring campaign was cut short after one run but co-trainer Adrian Bott said he had spelled well and connections were anticipating a fruitful preparation.
“He will have his second trial then he will potentially be on a three-year-old path towards the Derby, through both Guineas races and the Hobartville,” Bott said.
“He got quite crook (in the spring) but he’s had a good time off, a good break and he has come back in good shape.”
Everest runners Lost And Running and Eduardo are also down to trial at Randwick on Monday.
