General Salute faces a big challenge in the Theo Marks Stakes (1300m) at Rosehill, but Gerald Ryan is optimistic his sprinter has several key advantages. The five-year-old drops to just 53.5kg and gets conditions to suit after a solid third in the Show County Quality (1200m) on heavy ground last start.

“He’s got to go up another level,” Ryan said. “But he’s got no weight, barrier nine is fine, he’s at home, 1300 metres is what he’s looking for and he likes some cut in the ground. A lot points to him – it’s just a matter of whether he’s good enough to beat them.”

Ryan and co-trainer Sterling Alexiou also have Skyhook and King Of Pop heading to the Run To The Rose (1200m). Skyhook, freshened since his brilliant Rosebud (1100m) win, has been thriving, while King Of Pop will look to rebound after over-racing in the San Domenico Stakes.

“He went too fast the other day,” Ryan explained. “He hasn’t drawn ideally – I’d rather three than twelve – but we’ll ride him quiet and let him finish off.” Both colts remain on track for the Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m) later in the month.