Gringotts missed the 7 Stakes due to a minor blood abnormality, but the setback may prove a blessing in disguise with his program now timed perfectly for upcoming spring features.

Trainer Ciaron Maher withdrew the George Ryder Stakes winner from Randwick last weekend after routine tests showed his blood count was slightly off.

Assistant trainer Johann Gerard-Dubord explained the horse could have run, but connections opted for caution and will instead target Saturday’s Shannon Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill.

“There wasn’t much to it but in the middle of a preparation we didn’t want to take the risk,” Gerard-Dubord said.

“He actually galloped (Saturday) morning in an easy piece of work.

“We will take his bloods (this week) and if that’s right he will be taking his place on Saturday and it will be three weeks into a King Charles III Stakes which will work very well.”

A proven Group 1 performer over the course and distance, Gringotts resumes a month between runs after a strong fifth to Via Sistina on heavy going in the Winx Stakes (1400m). He has since won a barrier trial at Wyong, pleasing the stable.

“He is going very well and his first-up run was good. He just had to make his run a bit earlier than usual on that very heavy track,” Gerard-Dubord said.

“He will strip fitter and I’m looking forward to him getting back to the races.”

Stablemate Juja Kibo will also be in action, lining up in the Colin Stephen Quality (2400m) as a possible lead-up to the Group 1 Metropolitan (2400m).

The progressive stayer has won three of his past four starts, and Gerard-Dubord is confident he can continue his momentum.

“He’s very fit and he will be dropping in weight so we’ll give him his chance,” he said. “If he happened to win it or run well, he could back-up in a ‘Metrop’ a week later.”

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