From Ballarat, trainer Dan O’Sullivan considers the road ahead carefully in his quest for Adelaide Cup success featuring Berkeley Square.

Last Saturday’s 2000m placing at Caulfield behind him, Berkeley Square now eyes a rapid reappearance at Flemington this Saturday for the Be Captivated Trophy (2500m).

As O’Sullivan put it, the plan centers on optimizing Berkeley Square for the Group 2 Adelaide Cup (3200m) at Morphettville on March 9.

The customary Adelaide Cup forerunner, the Group 3 Lord Reims Stakes (2600m) at Morphettville on February 21, appeals less to O’Sullivan due to the prospect of two trips potentially disrupting Berkeley Square’s gelding preparation.

“It’s about getting the miles into the legs before the Adelaide Cup, so that’s why I’m running him on Saturday,” O’Sullivan said.

“The Lord Reims would quite possibly be a suitable race for him, but I don’t want to do two trips, I don’t want to go over, come home and then go back again.

“Plus, he’s in a good routine at home.”

Saturday’s 2500m should suit Berkeley Square well, said O’Sullivan, who can’t explain the gelding’s subpar efforts at Caulfield.

At Caulfield, Berkeley Square frets in the pre-race stalls, whereas Flemington brings out a more relaxed demeanor.

“The way he raced last week he’s looking for the extra trip now and after this we’ve got three weeks leading up to the Adelaide Cup, so that’s up to me to get it right,” O’Sullivan said.

“I think he’s in good spot.

“It would be good if we could win the Adelaide Cup. He’s owned there and the breeder (David Peacock) is very keen for him to go there.”

Twice a Ballarat Cup conqueror, Berkeley Square has posted two further runs since December’s second victory.

Luke Nolen climbs back on board at Flemington after his prior Ballarat winning ride. Look into the betting markets for the race to get involved.

The post Quick back-up for Berkeley Square first appeared on Just Horse Racing.