Trainer Peter Snowden says he won’t be worried if a few drops of rain arrive ahead of Victoria Derby Day at Flemington, with his talented colt Beadman right on track for the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) this Saturday.
The son of Snitzel is one of 15 nominations for the stallion-making sprint and had his first look down the famous Flemington straight in a jump-out last Friday, finishing second behind Balastier.
Snowden said the exercise was more about education than results. “He seemed focused and jumped out nicely,” Snowden said. “We weren’t worried about anything else. We were just trialling the horse. We held him up early and in the last 300 metres let him work to the line and he was really good. He got a tick from me watching him.”
Beadman has won two of his five starts, including a dominant 8¼-length win in the Group 3 Ken Russell Stakes (1200m) at the Gold Coast in May on heavy ground — a surface that would not faze him should rain hit the track this weekend.
After being spelled following that victory, he returned with strong Sydney runs, finishing third to Mahroona over 1100m and second in the Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) behind Hidden Motive, who he’ll likely face again at Flemington.
“He’s a smart horse,” Snowden said. “Everything I’ve done with him, he’s done easily. He’s still very raw and learning, but he’s very talented and this has been his target all along.”
Snowden was also pleased with how the colt handled the Flemington straight. “It didn’t faze him at all being down the straight — I didn’t think it would, but it’s always handy to have a look before race day. I hope he puts on a good show for everyone.”
Beadman, now based at Flemington, will again be partnered by Blake Shinn, who rode him in last week’s jump-out. Among his potential rivals in the Coolmore are Golden Rose winner Beiwacht, Blue Diamond Stakes champion Devil Night, Roman Consul victor Hidden Motive, Tentyris, and leading filly My Gladiola.
Punters can find the latest odds for the Coolmore Stud Stakes at top Australian betting sites.
