Joe Pride, the trainer of Ceolwulf, has solid grounds to believe the four-time Group One champion can regain his top form this preparation, following the premature end to his autumn campaign.
The highly-rated miler was spelled after only two starts last time in, owing to a combination of foot issues and a minor bleed. He is now slated to make his comeback this Saturday in the Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick.
Pride is not anticipating a victory on his return but is looking for a spirited performance from the gelding as he heads towards his main objective, a third consecutive win in the King Charles III Stakes (1600m).
“He needed a good rest, and he’s now had that rest,” Pride remarked.
“We’ll see a better version of him this spring, and it has always been a good time of year for him. He’s won his four Group Ones all in the spring, and I don’t think it’s coincidental.”
Ceolwulf’s only occasion featuring in the placings first-up was on his debut. Last year, however, he showed competitive spirit in the Winx Stakes (1400m), finishing fourth to Via Sistina after a late closing effort.
Facing a formidable line-up on Saturday, Pride will be content to see him hitting the line with vigour. A downgrade in track conditions from the current soft 7 rating would also be beneficial for the horse.
“I think it’s going to come down to track conditions on the day. If it ends up being a bit wet and a few of the key chances come out, he could end up being a top three chance,” Pride stated.
“But I’ve certainly learned not to expect too much of him early in his preparations. He’s never won first-up. He’s run some nice races, but that’s all I need to see from him, a nice return, and he’ll build into the preparation as he always does.”
The regular rider, Chad Schofield, will guide Ceolwulf, who was listed as a $34 chance on Thursday. The betting markets are dominated by the outstanding mares Autumn Glow ($1.85 favourite) and Sheza Alibi ($3.10).
Sheza Alibi was initially anticipated to resume in the Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield next week, but connections elected to change their minds and enter her for the Sydney event.
Co-trainer Katherine Coleman indicated that the Doncaster Mile champion is on schedule to participate at Randwick, with training partner Peter Moody preparing to travel with the Victorian mare on Thursday night.
“Pete and her strapper Mitch are heading up with her tonight (Thursday)…and hopefully they can get the job done,” Coleman told Sydney’s Sky Sports Radio.
“She’s by no means screwed down going into Saturday. We’ve been pretty vocal the grand final this time around is the Golden Eagle, so there is plenty of water to go under the bridge before we get there and that’s when we want to be peaking.
“Definitely plenty of improvement to come out of having the trip away and the run on Saturday, but she goes there in really good order.”
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