Incognito remains firmly entrenched at the top of Golden Slipper markets after bypassing the Magic Millions 2YO Classic in favour of a more patient lead-up.

The $1 million son of Stay Inside was eligible for the Gold Coast feature but instead trialled at Randwick last Thursday as trainer Michael Freedman eyes a return later this month.

That 850m heat followed an earlier trial win on January 2 and Freedman believes the colt is progressing exactly as planned.

“At this stage the plan is to head to the Canonbury Stakes on the 31st of January,” Freedman said.

“You can’t look too far ahead with two-year-olds, but he’s a very sensible colt and he’s doing everything right.

“I’m hopeful he’s the one that can stand up when it counts.”

Incognito has only made one raceday appearance, scoring a strong win in the Breeders’ Plate at Randwick in October.

He finished third in last week’s trial behind Enriched, with Manaal between them, while Group 1 winners Lady Shenandoah and Beiwacht also featured in the hit-out.

Freedman was pleased with how the colt handled himself against older, more seasoned runners.

“It’s never ideal to throw a young horse in against older ones, but he travelled well and quickened when asked,” he said.

“He didn’t have a hard time of it, and that was exactly what we wanted.”

Incognito now sits equal favourite for the Golden Slipper at $8 alongside Warwoven, who was scratched from the Magic Millions Classic on race morning.

Markets have already reacted across major online bookmakers as anticipation builds toward the autumn carnival.

The post Incognito nearing return to the races first appeared on Just Horse Racing.