Global Eclipse may have taken a less traditional route to the South Australian Derby, but trainer Mick Price believes the lightly raced colt is ready to rise to the occasion.
The Pierata colt dominated a Cranbourne maiden over 2000m last start, leading all the way to win by six lengths, prompting connections to test him at Group 1 level over 2500m on Saturday at Morphettville.
Global Eclipse was originally second emergency when final fields were declared, but gained a start following two scratchings, avoiding a potential run in the Evergreen Turf Handicap at Caulfield.
“He’s a big, long horse, he’s clean-winded,” Price said.
“We’re very happy with him.”
Although his breeding doesn’t suggest a Derby horse on paper, Price believes his racing style and work at home prove he can handle the distance.
“I just train him,” Price said. “Have a look at what he did at 2000 metres. I’ve worked him with some stayers at home lately and he’s there on the line.
“He’s clean-winded and I’m confident at 2500 metres, but he’s got to have a turn of foot. It’s just a matter of if he’s got the class to sprint a little bit.
“He’s a quiet horse, he’s a sound horse, and he’s totally enjoying being in training.”
Ben Melham, with two past wins in the South Australian Derby, will be aboard Global Eclipse, whose odds have shortened to $10 from $15.
Statuario remains the firm favourite at $3.20 and is well positioned after drawing barrier three, with the potential to start even closer to the rail.