Robbie Griffiths reveals Enxuto as part of a large group vying for spots in the Group 1 Doncaster Mile (1600m).
Not having won above open grade at three years old, the son by Lean Mean Machine tackles for Doncaster access in Saturday’s Group 2 Ajax Stakes (1500m) over Rosehill.
Ajax Stakes success provides the champion with direct entry to the Doncaster, where Enxuto holds 77th position on 50kg.
Four runners have doubled up Ajax to Doncaster, including recent example It’s Somewhat overcoming Happy Clapper in the 2017 edition.
Facing likely reductions in the ballot, Griffiths – marking 10 years since his unique Group 1 with The Quarterback in the 2016 Newmarket Handicap – affirms the five-year-old’s suitability for the challenge.
“I’d prefer to take Enxuto to the Ajax Stakes in Sydney, and that gives him two weeks into the Doncaster,” Griffiths said on Saturday.
“He’s in the mix. He’s one of many in the mix, but he ran fourth in the Ingham up there and his form around Sabaj, I hope runs really well because that’ll really help frank the form lines.”
That very afternoon, Sabaj substantiated the form by securing fourth, his best career result, in the Group 1 All-Star Mile (1600m).
Enxuto notched placings upon resuming: third behind Cafe Millenium and Sabaj in Listed Elms Handicap (1400m) company, then closing on Birdman in Group 2 Blamey Stakes (1600m) next time out.
With a tight two-week gap before, trainer Griffiths anticipates prime condition for the Ajax at minimum 54kg.
“He worked really well Saturday morning,” Griffiths said.
“I thought it’s hard to run really good two weeks off a blistering first up run, so I reckon his run will be better coming into this.”
Saturday’s all-in prices see Enxuto firm to $8.50 from $11, behind leader Lord Penman at $2.60 and Globe, a Group 1 winner, at $3.50.
Visit leading betting sites to access racing betting markets for the Ajax Stakes feature race.