Trainer Dom Sutton has opted to sidestep this Saturday’s $2.5 million Group 1 All-Star Mile at Flemington with Feroce, instead setting his sights on the prestigious Australian Cup later this month.
The Australian Guineas winner is being prepared for the Victoria Racing Club’s flagship autumn race, the $2.5 million Group 1 Australian Cup on March 29.
Sutton admitted the prospect of contesting the All-Star Mile was appealing but decided against it, given the strength of the field and the short turnaround following Feroce’s career-best performance last weekend.
“He’s come through the run in great shape, and the All-Star Mile was a tempting option,” Sutton said.
“But we’re focused on looking after him, and the Australian Cup in four weeks’ time is the more suitable goal.”
“He’s given us everything, and I’m not keen to back him up so quickly after such a big effort. If we take care of him, I’m sure he’ll take care of us.”
Sutton is considering whether to give Feroce a lead-up run in the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield on March 15 or take him straight into the Australian Cup at 2000m.
Three-year-olds have historically found the Australian Cup a tough assignment. Super Cool (2013) was the last to win the race, with Dulcify (1979) and Saintly (1996) the only other three-year-old champions. Since then, only four three-year-olds have lined up in the race, none finishing better than sixth.
Sutton acknowledges the challenge but believes staying in Melbourne is the right call, particularly given Sydney’s unpredictable weather.
“The Rosehill Guineas was originally the plan for his third-up run, but after the CS Hayes Stakes, Billy (Egan, jockey) said he really struggled on the soft ground,” Sutton said.
“With the way the forecast is looking in Sydney, and how the tracks tend to play at this time of year, we’re thinking it’s best to stay in Melbourne.”
While Feroce is yet to race beyond 1600m, Sutton is confident he can handle the step up in distance.
“He’s shown his quality at a mile, but 2000m is always a new challenge, particularly against weight-for-age competition,” Sutton said.
“That said, the way he works at home, his recovery, and the data we’re tracking all point towards him being a strong 2000m horse.”
