In a perfect world, Henry Dwyer would already be settled in the UK preparing Asfoora for her title defence in the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Instead, the talented mare was put through her paces in a 900m Flemington trial on Friday, finishing alongside Winnasedge as she builds towards her next international mission.

Last year, Asfoora was racing in the Group 2 Temple Stakes (1000m) at Haydock on this weekend, which served as a lead-in to her memorable win at Royal Ascot. But a lack of early flight availability post-Sangster Stakes has altered this year’s approach.

“We thought we’d get her over straight after the Sangster,” Dwyer said. “But flights haven’t worked out that way, so we’ve had to adjust. She can’t swim there or take a train, so this is the path we’re taking.”

Asfoora is now scheduled to float to Sydney early next week before flying to the UK. From there, she’ll head to Newmarket in a journey expected to span 38 to 40 hours door-to-door.

“The flight delays are a bit frustrating, especially for her wellbeing,” Dwyer added. “Last year the travel hit her hard, but we had more time. This year, we’re cutting it close.”

Friday’s jump-out was designed to leave her race fit before departure, with Dwyer explaining it will be hard to get significant work into her upon arrival.

“It’s been four weeks since her last run in the Sangster Stakes, and she flies out with three weeks until Royal Ascot. We’ve used this trial as a stand-in race,” he said.

“She had a short break after the Sangster and now it’s all about topping her off before the long trip. We’ll maybe get one good gallop into her over there and then it’s maintenance work.”

Dwyer also confirmed jockey Oisin Murphy is keen to reunite with the mare at Royal Ascot, pending commitments.

“He wants the ride, and it looks like he might be available,” Dwyer said. “There’s not much in the five-furlong division and he’s hopeful of sticking with her.”

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