After a forgettable spring campaign, Group 1 star Veight will return as a gelding in Saturday’s Doomben 10,000 (1200m), as Tony and Calvin McEvoy prepare the talented galloper for a three-run Brisbane mission.

Trainer Tony McEvoy revealed the gelding procedure wasn’t taken lightly but was made with the horse’s racing future in mind.

“It wasn’t an ideal decision to have to make, but we thought it was in the best interest of the horse,” McEvoy said. “He seems very good, and he’s acting right, which is great.”

Veight’s last campaign fizzled with a last-start 19th in the Golden Eagle, but McEvoy is optimistic that the more focused gelding can perform up to expectations in Queensland.

Following the Doomben 10,000, he’s expected to tackle the Kingsford Smith Cup and Stradbroke Handicap if he pulls up well.

With Andrew Mallyon booked for the ride from gate nine, Veight will be given every chance to settle where comfortable despite not being fully wound up for the race.

“He’s not as forward as I would hope, but the run will improve him. If the track is too wet, it might dull his finish, but he’s a very good horse,” McEvoy added.

Veight is rated a $26 outsider in the latest online betting odds, behind favourites Overpass ($3.70), Sunshine In Paris ($5), and Schwarz ($5.50).