Formidable sprinter Golden Straand has sustained his upward trajectory, now warranting consideration for stakes level after an outstanding triumph at Hawkesbury over the weekend.

Starting from off the pace, Nash Rawiller pinched the rail and the mighty four-year-old entire finished powerfully to take out the Blakes Marine Benchmark 78 Handicap (1100m).

Trainer Matthew Smith may choose to let Golden Straand climb the ladder gradually, but his evident high-class ability stands out.

“Golden Straand is building a very good record and he’s winning his races with authority,” Smith said.

“He’s run fast time again (1m 02.82s) and he’s carried a big weight (60kg). I’ll talk to Nash to see what we should do next but he’s a promising sprinter.

“Do we keep working through the grades or maybe look at a race like the (Listed $200,000) Luskin Star Stakes (1300m) at Scone in two weeks? It’s a good problem to have.”

Priced at $1.80 into favouritism, Golden Straand claimed win number two from two this campaign, a half-length success over returning Wanaruah ($13) for a Snitzel one-two. Couples Retreat ($9.50) was a length further back in third.

Gerry Harvey-owned Golden Straand, a four-year-old entire, has five successes in 10 appearances, with a Group success set to sharpen his stallion market prospects.

This preparation features four wins from six, including a Warwick Farm track record of 1m 08.3s at 1200m last spring.

Smith indicated Golden Straand’s talent was always there, but his racing education continues.

“He did a few things wrong early in his career,” Smith said. “But he’s starting to settle better in his races and he’s finding the line.

“There’s still improvement to come with this horse – he’s got a future, that’s for sure.”

For the latest on sports betting, check options around the Luskin Star Stakes featuring Golden Straand.