An eye-catching win in a Flemington Stakes has positioned Birdman as a contender for the Australian Cup.
The Chris Waller charge delivered on Saturday in the Group 2 Blamey Stakes (1600m), his second start post-spell, signalling bright prospects for the former UK import this autumn.
With $3.50 favourite Ben Melham in the saddle, the gelding quickened decisively beyond the 100m mark to claim victory by 1-¾ lengths over Enxuto ($7), followed half a head later by Mark Twain ($101).
On February 14, Birdman returned via the Listed Elms Handicap (1400m) at Flemington, where a tight draw left the gelding short of room.
Saturday’s tactics focused on preventing congestion, with Melham directed to position Birdman with freedom.
Darren Beadman, standing in for Waller, praised Melham’s compliance with the riding orders.
“Last start it didn’t work out from the inside draw, but today he held his line out of the gates,” Beadman said.
“He wasn’t the best to step away, but he kept that three wide line and dictated to a few runners around him.
“He let them know he wasn’t going to go over to the fence. He was seven lengths off the lead, and it was a pretty easy watch.”
Beadman recalled the gelding’s arrival from Britain boasting quality form, including hopes from owners for a Melbourne Cup crack.
“He arrived in Australia about a year-and-a-half or two years ago with good credentials and a couple of wins, including the Queen’s Vase,” Beadman said.
“The owners were hoping to aim for the Melbourne Cup. He’s been very consistent and his was a great run in the Caulfield Cup last year.
“I guess, without speaking to Chris, the Australian Cup will probably be the ideal type of race for him.”
The Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) is set down for March 28 at Flemington.
According to Melham, Birdman merited success on resumption and the run instilled real optimism ahead of the Blamey.
“I feel that he will go to a new level this preparation,” Melham said.
“I love the feeling when he let down today.
“He’s a master, Chris Waller. This horse has really come into his own this preparation and he’s a gentleman to deal with and he’s got a motor to boot.
“That will hold him in good stead moving forward.”
For punters tracking the 2026 Australian Cup, leading betting sites offer strong racing odds on Birdman.