What Redzel lacks in race sense he makes up for in ability and trainer Peter Snowden believes that will take him a long way.

But Snowden is realistic about the colt’s chances in Saturday’s Group Three San Domenico Stakes (1100m) at Rosehill which features the much-anticipated return of Golden Slipper winner Vancouver.

The Gai Waterhouse-trained Vancouver is the $2.20 favourite in early markets with punters also impressed by Redzel’s potential, keeping him safe at $4.60 second elect.

The colt had two starts for Gerald Ryan as a two-year-old, beating San Domenico rival Japonisme before running third in the Group Three Kindergarten Stakes won by Furnaces.

Since being transferred to Snowden and his son Paul, Redzel has won a 1050m-barrier trial.

“He is lacking race sense but he has got ability,” Snowden said.

“It won’t surprise me if he runs a good race but he is taking on the heavyweights here.

“Vancouver and Headwater, they are A-Graders and he has a little way to go. He is very new in the head but he is a strong athletic horse.

“I was happy with his trial and I’ve been very happy with what I see on the track.”

While many of his rivals are using the San Domenico as a stepping stone to the $1 million Golden Rose on September 12, Snowden said Redzel’s pedigree and his demeanour suggested trips shorter than 1400 metres would be his forte.

“He has a fast pedigree and I’m not sure where we go but he is most likely to be kept to shorter trips,” he said.

A field of eight will start in the San Domenico with the Chris Waller-trained Japonisme at $5 to win his fourth consecutive race while the Ryan-trained King’s Troop at $7.50.

Headwater, fifth in the Golden Slipper for Hawkes Racing is an $8 chance.

Snowden said Pride Of Dubai, winner of the Group One Blue Diamond Stakes and ATC Sires’ Produce, was likely to run in a barrier trial next week.

Article from justhorseracing.com.au