While all eyes may be on the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap this week, the Lindsay Park team is equally focused on Bankers Choice, who steps out in the The Q22 as a serious contender.

As Ben, Will, and JD Hayes wait on Tuesday’s barrier draw for Stradbroke favourite War Machine, they also prepare Bankers Choice for the 2200m Group 2 feature on the same Eagle Farm program.

“He’s a very straightforward horse,” Ben Hayes said. “We got him in great shape and thought his recent effort was solid given the break between runs.”

Bankers Choice was prominent in the Group 3 Lord Mayor’s Cup (1800m), leading into the straight before finishing third on the Heavy 8 track. It was his first outing on heavy ground since placing in the 2023 JRA Plate at Randwick.

Saturday’s rise to 2200m suits perfectly, especially after his win in the Mornington Cup (2400m) in April, which earned him ballot exemption for the Caulfield Cup.

“We gave him a trial at Caulfield because it was a decent break between races,” Hayes added. “His last run was the perfect hit-out for this one, and we’re confident 2220m is right in his range.”

The Brisbane forecast looks ideal with no rain predicted and temps hovering in the low 20s.

Bankers Choice is currently at $11 in early betting for The Q22, behind $2.50 favourite Fawkner Park, runner-up in the recent Doomben Cup.