Form has been inconsistent for Just Fine after three eye-catching successes on debut in Australia.
That said, co-trainer Adrian Bott believes the eight-year-old runner with light racing record is on track to hit top gear again this autumn.
Representing Tulloch Lodge in the Group 3 Parramatta Cup (1900m) at Rosehill Saturday are Just Fine, Hoo Ya Mal, and Campaldino who took out last year’s Brisbane Cup, Bott noting punters should rate him highly.
“I feel he’s back to where we had him originally,” Bott said.
“His last couple of trials have been encouraging. We’re pleased with him at home and in his work.
“Maybe out of our three, he seems the most forward, and the most suited by the race. Hopefully he can show that on his return.”
Last sighted tailed off in April’s Mornington Cup (2400m), Just Fine and Hoo Ya Mal both resume from time out.
English Derby runner-up in 2022, the gelding Hoo Ya Mal registered his best Down Under finish in the Group 2 Hill Stakes (1900m) 12 months back, with Bott keen on further progress.
“The talent is there, but he’s a horse that does need a lot to go his way in the run,” he said.
“I want to see something from him first, but he’s got the potential to be very competitive in these types of races.”
Resuming from his June Brisbane Cup (3200m) peak as a former Kiwi, Campaldino was rested after underwhelming spring trials.
Aim now turns to autumn features such as the Sydney Cup (3200m) following the extended freshen-up.
“He showed enough potential for us to pursue him as a tried prospect out of New Zealand, and he went from strength to strength last campaign when he went through his grades nicely and finished up with a very good win in the Brisbane Cup,” Bott said.
“We might have to be a bit more negative from that draw, which will make the task more difficult for him, but he’s got a nice campaign ahead.”
Barrier 14 in 14 runners, Campaldino was tightest priced of the trio at $7.50 Thursday, Just Fine $9.50, Hoo Ya Mal longer at $16.
Compare betting sites for competitive Parramatta Cup odds this weekend.