Michael Freedman is confident that his progressive three-year-old San Giovanni will handle the step up to 2000 metres when he contests the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes at Randwick this Saturday.
The lightly raced gelding has made a strong impression since debuting only a few months ago, and Freedman believes the timing is right to test him at the elite level. After two dominant wins at Newcastle and Kembla Grange in July, San Giovanni was sent for a short freshen-up before returning in tougher company for the Listed Ming Dynasty Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill. While he finished out of the placings that day, he has since built momentum with consecutive third-place finishes at 1800m — most recently in the Group 3 Gloaming Stakes.
Freedman said the gelding’s latest performance was full of promise and confirmed that he would appreciate the extra distance this weekend.
“He ran great in the Gloaming last time,” Freedman said. “He was strong late and gave every indication that the 2000 metres will suit him perfectly. He’s continued to improve through the prep, and he’s taken every step we’ve asked of him.”
Drawn ideally in barrier five, San Giovanni will again be ridden by Andrew Adkins, who has partnered him at each start this preparation. Freedman praised both horse and rider for their consistency, saying they have built an understanding that could pay dividends in the Spring Champion.
“Andrew knows him well and has given him lovely rides,” Freedman said. “He’s a big horse who’s still learning, and having continuity with his jockey has been a real plus.”
While some trainers have opted to back up their Spring Champion runners into the Group 1 Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington a week later, Freedman ruled that option out, saying the timing and trip were not ideal.
“I’ve never been a huge fan of the Derby distance for three-year-olds at this stage of their development,” he said. “If he runs well on Saturday, we’ll probably give him a spell and bring him back for the autumn. He’s still maturing and looks a real staying type for the future.”
San Giovanni will take on a strong field of 14 in Saturday’s Spring Champion Stakes, including Shangri La Boy and The Pearls, who finished ahead of him in the Gloaming. But Freedman is confident his colt can turn the tables with the rise in distance.
“He’s got the talent and the right temperament,” he said. “If he relaxes and finishes off the way I think he can, he’ll be right in the finish.”