Militarize’s brief stud career ended due to poor fertility, but it hasn’t affected his drive to race. He’s set to return in the Canterbury Stakes at Randwick.

The 2023 Golden Rose winner retired after finishing third in the Doncaster Mile, initially headed for the breeding barn. However, he’s now returning as a gelding for Saturday’s 1300m sprint. Trainer Chris Waller remains confident about his form.

“I’m not concerned about what he’s done off the racetrack,” Waller said. “He’s a professional and hasn’t shown any ‘colty’ tendencies.”

Militarize has been in work since November, preparing with two barrier trials and an exhibition gallop at Randwick. Waller says he is “ready to go.”

Stablemate Switzerland will also compete after a solid fourth-place finish in the Lightning Stakes. Waller aims Switzerland towards the T J Smith Stakes (1200m) and has several options for Militarize, including the Doncaster Mile (1600m) and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m).