From his early days with Todd Harvey to his current stable under Donna Riordan, Triple Missile has carved out a consistent and impressive career on the track. He’s picked up Group placings in Melbourne and recently claimed the Bunbury Stakes (1400m), demonstrating his class over sprint trips.

Now the talented gelding will face a new challenge as he steps beyond 1600m for the first time in Saturday’s Group 3 Swan Draught Strickland Stakes (2000m) at Pinjarra.

Trainer Donna Riordan is optimistic Triple Missile will handle the rise in distance with his trademark efficiency.

“I’ll think he’ll get it,” Riordan said. “I think he’ll get it well. Everything indicates and points that way. He’s never done it before, I know, but just the way he races and how economical he is. I think he should get it.”

After an unplaced return in the Belmont Sprint, Triple Missile showed his staying potential when charging home to finish third in the Hyperion Stakes, making up significant ground from last.

Riordan has had the Strickland Stakes in mind since the start of the prep, and feels now is the right time to test him over a longer journey.

“We were always going to go this way. I like to see him stretch out and see what he can do,” she said.

Joe Azzopardi takes the reins from gate two in Saturday’s feature.

Those backing Triple Missile in the Strickland Stakes can compare markets, odds, and promotions at the best betting sites Australia, with access to leading betting apps and trusted online bookmakers.