Despite stamina concerns, Imperialist remains a Queensland Derby hopeful following his upset win in the Rough Habit Plate (2000m) at Doomben on Saturday, a key lead-up to the Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm in two weeks.

The Chris Waller-trained colt bounced back from a disappointing Queensland Guineas performance, finding form again thanks to a gear change and a more positive ride by jockey Tommy Berry. He was largely overlooked by punters, jumping at $61 with online betting sites.

Waller acknowledged the challenge ahead, referencing Imperialist’s failure to stay the 2400m in the ATC Australian Derby last month.

“He brought some good form to Sydney from Melbourne then just didn’t quite stay the 2400 in the Derby,” Waller said.

“We’ve got a little bit of concern about the 2400.

“I think the Churchills are more speedier horses so that’s the challenge we’ve got to deal with in the next two weeks.”

The removal of blinkers and Berry’s proactive tactics proved pivotal in Imperialist’s turnaround.

“We tried blinkers (in the Guineas) and it just didn’t work. He missed the start,” Waller said.

“So we took them off and suggested to Tommy we ride him a bit closer. He had a nice soft time up in front and it just sparked a bit of interest.”

Berry echoed Waller’s concerns about the distance but has confidence in the trainer’s ability to prepare the horse accordingly.

“If he says he will get him to stay again, he will get him to stay,” Berry said.

“He is the best staying trainer that’s going around.”

Imperialist has been trimmed from $101 into $15 in Queensland Derby markets, while King Of Thunder retains favouritism at $6 after his third-place finish in the Rough Habit.

For those keen to follow Imperialist’s Derby path, the latest odds and features can be accessed through leading Australian betting sites.