David Vandyke has patiently guided Tuff Tu Mus through the grades, but the Sunshine Coast trainer knows the moment has arrived to test his stable star at a higher level.

The progressive five-year-old, a son of All Too Hard, will attempt to extend his remarkable streak to eight consecutive wins in Saturday’s $160,000 Listed Recognition Stakes at Doomben.

The 1350-metre contest marks his first appearance in Stakes company, yet Vandyke is delighted with the gelding’s condition and confident that barrier seven and an unbeaten record at Doomben—five runs for five wins—provide the perfect platform.

“It’s a huge step up from what he’s run in previously, but he’s got a wonderful record with seven-straight metro wins and he certainly deserves a crack at this type of race,” Vandyke said.

“He’s drawn OK in the middle of the line and he’s never been beaten at Doomben.

“The signs are good for a decent performance, but we’re under no illusions that this is a very tough assignment for him.”

Tuff Tu Mus capped an unbeaten second campaign with a strong benchmark 90 victory over 1815m at Eagle Farm on August 2, after also winning the final three starts of his debut preparation.

His only career defeats came at his first two outings, both narrow losses before he began building his imposing record.

Three trials have prepared him for this return, finishing fourth twice before winning a 1000m hit-out at the Sunshine Coast on November 11.

Vandyke said he was encouraged by the latest trial and believes the distance is an ideal starting point.

“His last trial was pretty good, he can mix his form in his trials, but he does go well raceday which is the important thing,” he said.

“I’ve given him a fair bit of work, he’s had a few trials and I don’t think the distance will be a worry, I don’t think the track will be a worry, it’ll just be a matter of how it goes in this grade.”

A strong showing on Saturday would prompt Vandyke to map out a Magic Millions campaign for the $140,000 National Yearling Sale graduate.

Tiffani Brooker reunites with Tuff Tu Mus, who sits third in the betting behind Boomtown Boss and So You Pence in what shapes as a competitive market.

If you’re planning a wager on the Recognition Stakes, compare odds at the best Australian betting sites before placing your bet.