Disruptions from jockey suspensions and regional engagements have restored Beau Mertens to the partnership with Sabaj in the Australian Cup.
Mick Price had regrettably told Mertens at first that Mark Zahra was earmarked for the Group 1 ride on Sabaj at Flemington Saturday.
Events overrode that when Zahra drew a careless riding ban at Caulfield Heath Wednesday, then another on Saturday for whip rules breach, knocking him out.
“If only I had waited, I would have been a good bloke, instead I’ve covered myself in shame,” Price said.
“I had to put my arm around Beau again as there are riders going left, right and centre.”
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr runner Sabaj tackles the Australian Cup after placing fourth latest in Flemington’s All-Star Mile (1600m) March 7.
Tom Kitten and Pride Of Jenni, rivals again in the Australian Cup, were in front, while Birdman arrives fresh off winning the Peter Young Stakes (1800m) Caulfield March 14.
Price revealed the yard’s desire to prove Sabaj over 2000m.
“He’s a big clean-winded horse and we’ve been working him for 2000 metres,” Price said.
“I think he’ll show up, but he’s got to be good enough on the day. He’s a nice, sound horse, and he seems to go on all types of ground.
“If Jenni turns up, she will be unbeatable and Birdman, he’s coming through the 1800-metre race.
“It’s a competitive race, he likes Flemington. It will be a small field, he’s a relaxed horse, so he should travel good.”
Sabaj picked up a trivial injury leading into the All-Star Mile, forcing a rethink of their schedule.
They once planned the Blamey Stakes (1600m) before the Peter Young Stakes, but dropped it.
“My question on the horse starting in the Australian Cup is he has to be good enough on the day to win a 2000-metre weight-for-age race,” Price said.
“I do think it’s a better option than the Doncaster Mile and it’s staring us in the face, so we might as well try it.”
Price eyes future runs northwards for Sabaj, possibly wrapping the Sydney Carnival or chasing Queensland Winter Carnival prizes.
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