Veteran sprinter Rothfire is set to make his return to Group 1 racing in Saturday’s $1.5 million Doomben 10,000, with trainer Robert Heathcote confident the rising eight-year-old still has more to give.

It’s been nearly 18 months since Rothfire last saluted in the winner’s stall, but that hasn’t dulled Heathcote’s belief in his stable star, who has overcome multiple setbacks throughout his 33-start career.

“In all fairness, I will know when he’s ready to retire,” Heathcote said. “When he gives me the slightest sign that he no longer enjoys training, he no longer enjoys what he does, then I’ll know. I know this horse better than my wife.”

Rothfire’s last outing in elite company came in the Moir Stakes last September, and his recent fourth in the Victory Stakes on May 3 proved enough for Heathcote to lock in another crack at the big time.

Rothfire’s best moment remains his 2020 triumph in the JJ Atkins Stakes, and he’ll be hoping to add to his black-type résumé this weekend under jockey Tim Clark.

Currently rated a $26 outsider in Doomben 10,000 markets, Rothfire will meet proven Group 1 opposition including Overpass, Sunshine In Paris, Benedetta and Schwarz. You can find the latest odds and betting offers on the race by visiting our recommended Australian betting sites.