Trainer Brad Widdup has decided to raise the bar with talented colt Anthropoid, who will line up for a chance at Magic Millions qualification in Saturday’s $1 million Golden Gift at Rosehill.

The two-year-old produced a striking performance on debut in the Kirkham Plate (1000m), settling last before closing off strongly into fourth, suggesting the additional 100m on Saturday will be ideal.

Widdup had originally planned only a short spring for Anthropoid, but his encouraging finishing burst has altered the schedule.

“I wasn’t going to push on too much further than the other day, but he didn’t get a fair crack at them really, and he was good late,” Widdup said.

“He is a Magic Millions horse. We’ll see what happens Saturday and what prizemoney he can pick up.

“If he doesn’t perform, he’ll go to the paddock. If he does, then we freshen and consider Queensland.”

By Prague and purchased for $180,000, Anthropoid races for Mulberry Racing, who have strengthened their racing profile in recent seasons, including holding a The Everest slot and racing Widdup-trained sprinter Jedibeel.

Jedibeel contests the Group 1 Champions Sprint at Flemington on Saturday, while Widdup also prepares Sunset Park for the Matriarch Stakes.

The trainer also noted the timely win of Stagnum, Anthropoid’s half-sister, which further supports the colt’s profile.

“He was a nice, straightforward colt from the beginning. He’s always done everything right, and he’ll only improve with time,” Widdup said.

Tyler Schiller has been booked to ride from barrier one.

If you’re having a bet in the Golden Gift, compare bookies via the Australian betting sites list.