Promising gelding Roselyn’s Star will make his long-awaited return to racing at Rosehill on Saturday after spending twelve months on the sidelines with growing pains. He is set to contest the Congratulations Chris Waller Handicap (1100m) from the outside gate, but co-trainer Tom Charlton believes his natural speed and the booking of leading jockey James McDonald will help negate the barrier disadvantage.

“He jumps very quickly, so the wide draw isn’t a huge concern,” Charlton said. “He’s proven on rain-affected ground, which he might even prefer, but if it gets extremely heavy, we’ll decide whether he should run or wait for another race.”

Roselyn’s Star showed significant promise in his debut preparation, winning at his second start on the Kensington track and finishing runner-up to Espionage in the 2024 Group 3 Kindergarten Stakes (1100m). He missed his three-year-old season due to physical immaturity rather than injury.

“He just needed more time to grow into himself,” Charlton said. “He’s had a trouble-free preparation this time, including two solid trials. He’s a forward-going horse, and we’re confident he can have a productive campaign. Hopefully, he can rise through the grades and be aimed at next year’s Magic Millions.”

Charlton and John O’Shea will also be represented by Metaphorically in the Congratulations Braith Nock Handicap (1200m). A last-start winner, Metaphorically has strong wet-track credentials and his trainers are optimistic about his progression to Saturday city grade. “He’s in form, has handled soft and heavy going, and we’re keen to see him step up,” Charlton said.