Since he’s been gelded, Japonisme has struck a purple patch of form which has earned him the right to take on high profile colt, Golden Slipper winner Vancouver, in the San Domenico Stakes.

The Gai Waterhouse-trained Vancouver heads the 10 entries for Saturday’s Group Three San Domenico (1100m), his first start since the Slipper in March.

He is unbeaten in four starts and his new majority owners, Coolmore Stud, have ambitious spring plans including the Caulfield Guineas and Cox Plate.

Japonisme, the winner of his three starts since the gelding operation, is also entered for the Caulfield Guineas and trainer Chris Waller admits the San Domenico will be a litmus test.

“We are throwing him in the deep end on Saturday with no unrealistic expectations,” Waller said.

“He has come through his last start well. He’s in great form so he deserves his chance.”

Haptic, Headwater and King’s Troop have all been entered for the Group Three Vain Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on Saturday in addition to the San Domenico.

Headwater, from the Hawkes Racing stable, won the Silver Slipper and finished fifth in the Golden Slipper in which Godolphin’s Haptic was 12th after winning his two other starts including the Listed Lonhro Plate.

Japonisme steps up to stakes company for the first time in the San Domenico.

He was placed at his first two starts in March, finishing third in a 1200m-race won by subsequent Group Two winner and Group One placegetter, Look To The Stars, and then second to Redzel who is a San Domenico entry.

The Gerald Ryan-trained King’s Troop finished second to Japonisme on debut at Rosehill on July 18 and won an 1100m-maiden at Warwick Farm last week.

King’s Troop, closely related to Snitzel who Ryan trained to win the 2006 Oakleigh Plate, will be given a rest after Saturday with his trainer’s preferred option the Sydney race.

Article from justhorseracing.com.au