Bjorn Baker is hoping a tough effort in a strong middle-distance race has laid the perfect foundation for Soldier Of Love to be a force in the $1 million The Gong.

A Randwick winner over a mile in October, Soldier Of Love extended to 2000 metres last start and didn’t shirk his task to finish fourth to Sydney spring carnival star Think It Over.

He returns to 1600 metres for Saturday’s Kembla Grange assignment and won’t be found wanting on the score of stamina.

“He will go to The Gong next weekend,” Baker said.

“It was a good run in the Rosehill Gold Cup and I think back from 2000 metres to a mile might suit him.

“He’s been going really well so he deserves an opportunity.”

Along with The Hunter in Newcastle, The Gong was introduced to the racing calendar three years ago.

Chris Waller and James Mcdonald combined to win the inaugural edition with Mister Sea Wolf while Hawkes Racing and Jay Ford triumphed 12 months ago with Archedemus.

The latter is likely to get the chance to chase consecutive wins and co-trainer Michael Hawkes expects him to lift sharply on his unplaced effort in the Chatham Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on November 6.

“Archedemus will probably head there,” Michael Hawkes said.

“He raced in Melbourne (last start) and he was slow away and once he misses the start, he doesn’t like that. He just takes no interest.”