True Marvel began his jumping career with a maiden hurdle win at Hamilton two years ago, but since then, the gelding has forged a solid path on the flat—highlighted by an eighth in the 2023 Melbourne Cup, which netted $160,000 in prize money.

Trainer Matthew Smith is aiming True Marvel at another tilt at the Cup this spring, starting with Thursday’s Listed Warrnambool Cup (2350m).

The campaign will continue through the Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) at Flemington in May and the Group 2 Brisbane Cup (3200m) in June at Eagle Farm.

“He just needs two miles, but you need to get them fit and there’s not too many options for those sorts of horses,” Smith said.

Thursday will be just his third run since returning from a 16-month layoff caused by a ligament injury.

“We thought that was probably it as when they get to that age, it’s hard to get them back, but we did the rehab and gave him plenty of time,” Smith explained.

“He’s sound and going well, he just needs to get out in trip.”

Smith is confident the gelding’s recent efforts show he’s returning to form.

“His last run was the sort of run he puts in when he’s starting to get fit, in a race that was too short,” he said. “If the ground comes up heavy at Warrnambool, he’ll keep grinding.”

Smith, who recently travelled to Perth to see Headwall finish second in The Quokka, has enlisted local trainer Matthew Williams to oversee True Marvel this week.

“He’ll then come home after he runs on Thursday, and we’ll take him back down for the Andrew Ramsden,” he said. “Travelling doesn’t worry him.”