Trainer Patrick Payne is contemplating a difficult choice for his promising galloper, Buccleuch.

The four-year-old gelding has been accepted into the Listed Testa Rossa Stakes (1440m) at Caulfield on Sunday. However, he also carries the top weight in the Sportsbet Same Race Multi (1600m) at Mornington the day before.

Payne has a policy against racing his horses outside their handicap limitations, and Buccleuch, rated 86, is competing in a benchmark 84 race at Mornington.

Conversely, at Caulfield, Buccleuch, with his 86 rating, faces War Machine, a 109 rater, and will receive only 2kg under the set-weights and penalties conditions of Sunday’s contest.

Buccleuch has made a strong return from successful wind surgery, winning twice at Sandown over 1400m.

Payne mentioned that the Toorak Handicap (1600m) at Caulfield on October 10 could be a suitable target for the gelding. However, the trainer is concerned his current rating might be too low to gain entry.

“We had the tie back surgery with him and it’s been very successful,” Payne said.

“We were pleasantly surprised with how it went as he was always a handy horse.”

“He was working really well at home, but you need to see what happens when they go to the races and come under pressure.”

“He’s an 86 horse now and most horses if they get to 80, they don’t fluke it, but it’s going to be difficult for him now.”

“He was entered for the Testa Rossa on Sunday, but I wasn’t that keen to run him out of his handicap, so I’d prefer to go to Mornington and then we’ll look to do something clever after Saturday.”

“The Toorak could be a lovely race, but I think his rating is too low and I hate racing them out of their handicap, but there are some nice Listed, Group 3 races down the track if he puts his hand up.”

Payne indicated that there is still considerable time for Buccleuch to reach a higher racing grade.

To date, Buccleuch has competed in nine races, winning five and earning just over $300,000 in prize money.

“He’s only a spring four-year-old, he’s still got plenty of time,” Payne stated.

“He’ll be a better a four-year-old in the autumn and again as a five-year-old, so there is no panic from me.”

The choice between the Testa Rossa Stakes and the Mornington race presents a significant decision for Buccleuch’s connections. Explore the betting sites for all the latest odds.