Trainer Robbie Griffiths is feeling more optimistic about the preparation Rey Magnerio has had leading up to a Group 1 race at Caulfield.

Rey Magnerio returns to contest the Oakleigh Plate (1100m) on Saturday, following a ninth-place finish in the sprint last year.

Griffiths shared that last year, Rey Magnerio was essentially still in his early racing career, whereas this time, he has had the opportunity to properly plan the gelding’s campaign.

“Two years ago, when he won at the Spring Carnival, it was a benchmark 80,” Griffiths explained.

“He didn’t have enough points, and we would have been at a disadvantage to put him in the Oakleigh Plate last year, so we targeted the summer series instead.”

“He won at Geelong, he won at Caulfield, and he earned his spot without a proper break, just a freshen, in what was essentially his first racing campaign.”

“This time, we’ve had a chance to rest him, plan for the spring with five runs, finish after the Meteorite (at Cranbourne), freshen him up, and go again.”

“This approach avoids the constant grade jumps we had before.”

Rey Magnerio’s spring campaign mostly consisted of Stakes races, and he kicked off his latest campaign with a victory in the Group 2 Rubiton Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on February 8.

“He was running at a high level in the spring, and he’s returned in the autumn ready for the top competition, which was a huge step last year,” Griffiths noted.

“We had a poor draw last year, which took a toll. This year, he’s a stronger horse, and we’ve drawn well in five, with quality competitors around him.”

“We’re thrilled with his return, and he’s galloping beautifully since. Given the draw, he’ll get a good chance.”

“With his fighting spirit, I believe we’re in with a shot.”

Griffiths is also targeting the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8 for Rey Magnerio.

The Newmarket Handicap gave Griffiths his first Group 1 win when The Quarterback triumphed in 2016.