There are plenty of horses that earn admiration in racing circles, but few like Berkeley Square. The popular galloper continues to prove his value as he resumes in the Listed VRC-CRV Winter Championship Final (1600m) on Saturday.

Once considered a leading chance in the Victoria Derby, the now five-year-old has maintained a remarkable level of consistency with just three unplaced runs from his past 13 starts. Among his highlights is a Listed win in the Ballarat Cup (2000m).

He’s also placed in the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes, the Group 2 Zipping Classic, and the Group 3 Coongy Cup, showcasing his credentials in major staying races throughout 2024.

His only run this year came at Flemington in February where conditions didn’t suit, but trainer Dan O’Sullivan says he’s benefited from a good break since.

“He had a good break,” O’Sullivan said.

“We’ll look to do what we did last year but with his rating above 100 now we might be looking at races like the Heatherlie Handicap, the Coongy and the Bendigo and Ballarat Cups again.”

Although the 1600m journey is shorter than his ideal trip, Berkeley Square has proven himself over similar distances before, with eight wins and eight placings from 27 career runs.

“Barrier one isn’t ideal but the horse is going well and he loves Flemington and the mile.

“It might be short of distance but he has come back very, very well.”

Currently rated a $51 chance in the Winter Championship, Berkeley Square’s form may warrant more respect.

The current favourite is Oh Too Good from Kevin Daffy’s stable, who is aiming for back-to-back Flemington wins at $2.80.

Looking to bet on Berkeley Square or the Winter Championship Final? Check the top odds and markets at justhorseracing.com.au.