Trainer Les Bridge believes Classique Legend needs to boost his fitness levels before he heads to the races and the gelding will not resume in The Shorts as scheduled.

The reigning Everest winner narrowly won a barrier trial at Randwick on Friday but after conferring on the performance, Bridge and jockey Kerrin McEvoy are convinced he needs more time.

“After the trial both Les and I were of the opinion he’s just a bit behind in fitness but he’s still trialled up well,” McEvoy told Racing NSW.

“Les wanted to get him closer to his peak than go to the races first-up and have him underdone. That’s the way Les has decided to move forward and I’m right behind the decision.

“Overall, we’re really pleased, it’s just been a slight change of tack but moving forward, it’s the best decision for the horse.”

Classique Legend will instead kick off in the Premiere Stakes (1200m) two weeks later before mounting his Everest defence a fortnight after that.

Meanwhile, Annabel Neasham has confirmed Cox Plate favourite Zaaki will head straight to Melbourne and have his next start in the Group 1 Underwood Stakes, ruling out a clash with brilliant mare Verry Elleegant in the George Main Stakes at Randwick.

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au