While the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott stable might not possess the sheer quantity of runners compared to larger stables for the Turnbull Stakes at Flemington.
Waterhouse expressed her philosophy, saying, “you only need one to fire” to achieve the desired result.
The stable is likely to rely solely on Sir Delius for the Group 1 2000m contest on Saturday, although stablemate Vauban is also nominated.
This is in contrast to the significant presence of Chris Waller, who has entered eight of the 21 horses, and Ciaron Maher with six nominations.
Sir Delius, ridden by Craig Williams, completed a 1000m gallop on the Flemington course proper on Tuesday morning, increasing his speed over the final 400 metres.
Waterhouse stated that she chose to alter the horse’s training regimen, opting for shorter, sharper workouts.
“He seemed to really enjoy it,” Waterhouse said.
“His muscle tone has improved so much from his first-up run.”
His previous start saw him finish fourth behind Sheza Alibi in the Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on September 12, marking Sir Delius’s return to the track after a spell since April.
Sir Delius was left flat-footed when turning for home first-up but maintained his effort through the concluding stages.
Waterhouse believes the increased distance will suit Sir Delius perfectly on Saturday, though she acknowledges there is still room for improvement ahead of his main target, the Cox Plate (2000m) at Flemington on October 24.
“That’s his D-day, but he’s a very fit horse and in the right mindset going into Saturday,” Waterhouse confirmed.
“He’s had more gallops, more time down here.
“I’ve got him walking more, all the little things that will help him on D-day and hopefully it’s a stepping stone, the Turnbull.
“I think I’ve got him spot on. Adrian has done a fantastic job to send him down to me down here and I love having these sorts of horses down here at Flemington.”
Vauban also underwent a workout at Flemington on Tuesday, covering 1400 metres.
Waterhouse is deliberating on whether Vauban will participate on Saturday or be saved for a later run in the Melbourne Spring Carnival.
“He did the old, more mature type of work,” Waterhouse explained.
“He did pacework over seven furlongs (1400m). He really enjoyed it. Stretched his legs, had a look around.
“Is he ready, I’m not sure. I’ll have to have a think about it and decide whether to run on Saturday in the Turnbull or we wait for later in the Carnival.”
Sir Delius appears to be in good shape for the Turnbull Stakes. Browse the top online bookmakers for the latest odds.
