Trainer John Sargent is confident that seasoned galloper Palmetto is only now beginning to hit his peak, despite being a seven-year-old. The former New Zealand dual Listed winner, who has already claimed notable Australian victories in the $500,000 The Coast (1600m) and $1 million Five Diamonds Prelude (1500m) in 2023, broke through for his first local black type win in the Canberra Cup (2000m) in March.

Palmetto resumes this Saturday in the Captivant @ Kia Ora Handicap (1400m) at Rosehill, the first of three planned runs. “He has finally matured being a New Zealand-bred horse and being slow maturing,” Sargent said. “His trials have been super and I’d expect him to run well on Saturday.”

Following his return, Palmetto is set to line up in the Chelmsford Stakes before heading south for the Feehan Stakes at Moonee Valley. The Canberra Cup win has opened the door to more middle-distance assignments, and Sargent expects to step him up in trip after a couple of runs. “We will see how he goes in the Feehan and how he handles that way around,” he said.

Stablemate Vetwelve also heads to Rosehill for the Midway Handicap (1500m) after blinkers sparked a winning performance at Kembla Grange. “The blinkers helped and this race should suit him being a Midway,” Sargent said. “He runs on speed, he’s fit and he’s ready to go.”

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