He’s been unlucky not to crack it for a win this preparation, but the David Payne-trained Dream Circle will get his chance to get back into the winners’ circle when he contests the Maroubra Mile at Kensington this Saturday.
All three of the Dream Ahead gelding’s runs have been full of merit this time in, with two placings and a fifth when not much went his way, and the five-year-old should be nearing his peak fourth-up from the spell over the 1550m journey.
His first-up second behind Vulpine in the Starlight signalled that a good campaign was in store, and he then backed that up with a credible fifth in the Razor Sharp when making up steady ground from the back half of the field. His most recent effort was a solid third behind Oscar Zulu at Randwick over 1400m.
“His first run was a bottler and his second run he just got a bit too far back,” Payne said.
“The third-up run was a great effort because that was quite a strong field.
“I think he’s looking for the extra trip now, that will suit him better.”
The prospect of a Soft surface this Saturday was news to Payne’s ears with Dream Circle’s six career victories all coming on Soft and Heavy going.
“It should be a soft track this Saturday which is not a problem at all,” Payne said.
“I’ve got him nominated for the Magic Millions race next month over 1400m and this will be his last run before that.
“We are very happy with him and expect a very good run.”
As to his quality four-year-old Montefilia, Payne is looking forward to the autumn and even further into next year’s Cup carnival.
The Kermadec mare has done a fantastic job for connections already picking up the Group 1 Flight Stakes, the Group 1 Champion Stakes, the Group 1 Metropolitan and placing in the Group 1 VRC Oaks amassing almost $2 million in earnings in the process.
“She’s come back really good, really pleased with her. She’s blossomed,” Payne said.
“She’s carrying much more condition, it was the right decision no to go the (2021 Melbourne Cup). It’s let her mature a bit more.
“I’ll put her in everything (this autumn), but I think her main mission will most probably be the Tancred over 2400m at Rosehill.
“Then we’ll try and get her up for the 2022 Melbourne Cup next spring. That’s the plan.”
Montefilia currently sits at $26 with the TAB in all-in betting for next year’s Melbourne Cup.
