Trainer Bjorn Baker is optimistic about Arapaho’s prospects this autumn, believing the gelding has what it takes to claim a second victory in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes at Rosehill.

Having secured the Tancred title two years ago, the seasoned eight-year-old is preparing for another shot at the prestigious 2400m weight-for-age event this Saturday, after missing last year’s edition.

Arapaho has the opportunity to join racing legends Tie The Knot and Octagonal as a dual Tancred winner. Tie The Knot achieved consecutive victories in 1999 and 2000, while Octagonal triumphed as a three-year-old in 1996 before repeating the feat the following year.

Last seen finishing a close second to anticipated Tancred competitor Vauban in the Group 3 Sky High Stakes (2000m) on March 15 at Rosehill, Arapaho had already shown promise over shorter distances earlier in the season. He finished fifth in both the Apollo Stakes (1400m) and the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m), demonstrating his consistency.

Baker is eager to see his charge step back up to the 2400m trip, where he believes Arapaho is at his strongest.

“He’s going great,” Baker said.

“Of course, he won the race two years ago.

“His runs this preparation have been outstanding, it’s hard to think he’s not going better than ever.

“The 2400 metres suits, he looks good and I think he definitely goes in a really good chance.

“We know he excels at 2400 metres, that’s probably his best distance.

“So I think with a bigger field and more tempo on, it will suit him.”

In addition to his 2023 Tancred triumph, Arapaho also claimed victory in the Group 2 Zipping Classic over 2400m at Caulfield last spring. He further showcased his staying prowess by winning the Listed Grafton Cup over 2350m in 2022.

Baker is confident the gelding is reaching peak form at just the right time.

“And his work since (his last start) has been very good,” Baker added.

“So we’re very, very happy with him.”

Jockey Rachel King will once again take the reins on Saturday.

Meanwhile, early betting markets have UK-based Dubai Honour, trained by William Haggas, leading the odds for the Tancred Stakes at $2.80. Vauban follows at $3.50, while Arapaho sits at $6, according to online betting sites.

Dubai Honour made a huge impact during the 2023 Sydney autumn carnival, securing back-to-back wins in the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m) and the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m).

The Tancred Stakes headlines Saturday’s Rosehill card alongside the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m), a feature event for three-year-old fillies.