Nathan Doyle concedes defending the Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) title appears out of reach, given Hidden Motive’s 26th spot in the nominations.
Last year’s success came via Private Harry, but as an 88 rater, Hidden Motive faces a battle with only 14 positions and six emergencies on offer.
Turning to the Listed Darby Munro Stakes (1200m), Hidden Motive may renew rivalry with Beadman and Inkaruna, who prevailed over him in the Listed Fireball Stakes (1100m) fresh and rank 24th and 25th for The Galaxy.
Doyle expressed interest in The Galaxy at 50kg but is content with a Rosehill return.
“The Darby Munro is the only real option with him,” Doyle said.
“I’d say we’ll be struggling to get into The Galaxy, but if he did make the field I’d definitely have a crack with him because he’s on speed horse with no weight on his back.”
Second-up improvement is on the cards after beating Beadman in the Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) over the Darby Munro journey last Spring, per Doyle.
“He rails like a greyhound and flicks on corners, I think that’s his best attribute,” Doyle said.
“He can ride a hot tempo, flick, then just maintain so Rosehill is going to suit him down to the ground.”
“He’s got a good attitude towards things. He’s a good eating horse, he’s pretty casual around the stables, so he doesn’t overexert himself, which allows him to stay up continue on as a racehorse and put his best foot forward.”
His early Breeder’s Plate run as a two-year-old has enabled sustained efforts, setting up potential progress as the prep deepens, Doyle hopes.
“He’s always a big roly-poly horse, so he takes a bit of time to come to hand,” Doyle said.
“That’s probably shown in his last preparations as well, third up when he won the Roman Consul was probably his best run.
“But we’ve had him in quite a while this time in. I think he’s probably more forward than last preparation which he’ll probably need to be, taking on that class.
“We’re really pleased with the horse and how he’s come on from that first up run.”
Hidden Motive trades at $9 in Darby Munro all-in futures and $15 ahead of the Group 2 Arrowfield Sprint (1200m), Doyle’s confirmed aim for April 11th.
Discover racing odds on offer for the Darby Munro Stakes with Hidden Motive from leading sports betting platforms.
