Trainer Grahame Begg is monitoring the weather closely as he prepares Royal Insignia for a first-up run at Caulfield.
The four-year-old is entered for Saturday’s Listed Regal Roller Stakes (1200m), marking his return since finishing tenth in the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) at Flemington in March.
Begg intends to keep the colt to shorter trips this campaign, but a rain-affected surface could see him scratch from the event.
“The only way he won’t run is if the track comes up heavy,” Begg said.
Forecasts indicate up to nine millimetres of rain on Friday and a further three on race day.
Royal Insignia has tuned up with three jump-outs, winning his latest over 1000m on Monday. Begg opted for that outing instead of a Tuesday morning gallop to ensure peak fitness.
The horse was seen sweating up in his latest effort, something Begg says was intentional.
“We gave him a solid warm-up beforehand to get the edge off him,” he said. “He’s a naturally laid-back horse, so it was good to simulate race conditions.”
Jordan Childs, who partnered Royal Insignia in his past two trials, will take the reins on Saturday.
For those planning to follow the action, be sure to explore the latest betting options ahead of the Regal Roller Stakes.