British trainer Charlie Fellowes has flagged the prestigious Cox Plate as a future ambition for his promising three-year-old Luther, who is set to compete in the Grade 1 Belmont Derby Invitational Stakes at Saratoga this Saturday.
A Listed winner as a juvenile and fifth in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket, the Frankel colt has delivered solid performances in his three outings this season.
He returned with a runner-up finish at Chelmsford before an encouraging fourth in the Group 1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains in France last month.
Despite a below-par result when stepping up in distance for the Prix du Jockey Club, Fellowes remains confident heading into this weekend’s American test.
“He’s really good and has taken the journey over there like a champ,” Fellowes said.
“He had a little blow yesterday morning on the dirt, he looks fantastic, he’s eaten everything that we’ve thrown at him and all the usual boxes that you want to tick when you go away have been ticked.
“I’ve always thought America would suit him at some stage in his career. At the end of the day, I’m trying to find the best opportunity for my horse to win the biggest race he can possibly win and there’s no bigger race than a Grade 1.”
Fellowes is eyeing the Grade 1 Saratoga Derby next, which serves as a direct pathway into the Cox Plate, a route once taken by 2021 winner State Of Rest.
“Long term, the Saratoga Derby is a win-and-you’re-in for the Cox Plate,” he told Sky Sports.
“Although that’s a very, very long way away, the owner, Mr Hickman who owns 75% of him, lives in Singapore and I know would love for him to head down to Australia.”
Fellowes is no stranger to international travel, having brought Prince Of Arran to Melbourne for three Melbourne Cup placings and wins in the Lexus Stakes and Geelong Cup.
To back Luther in the Belmont Derby or follow his Cox Plate journey, find top betting options at justhorseracing.com.au.