The trainer Nathan Doyle accepts that defending his Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) triumph looks unlikely, as Hidden Motive is listed 26th in line for entry.
With Private Harry delivering the win there 12 months ago, an 88 rating means Hidden Motive needs many to drop out for the 14 slots available alongside six reserves.
Opting for the Listed Darby Munro Stakes (1200m) instead, Hidden Motive could encounter Beadman and Inkaruna, placed ahead in his Listed Fireball Stakes (1100m) return and sitting 24th and 25th for The Galaxy.
Although Doyle would have targeted The Galaxy at 50kg, he maintains Rosehill fits perfectly.
“The Darby Munro is the only real option with him,” Doyle said.
“I’d say we’ll be struggling to get into The Galaxy, but if he did make the field I’d definitely have a crack with him because he’s on speed horse with no weight on his back.”
Expecting a sharper effort second time out, following his Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) success over Beadman at the Darby Munro distance in Spring.
“He rails like a greyhound and flicks on corners, I think that’s his best attribute,” Doyle said.
“He can ride a hot tempo, flick, then just maintain so Rosehill is going to suit him down to the ground.”
“He’s got a good attitude towards things. He’s a good eating horse, he’s pretty casual around the stables, so he doesn’t overexert himself, which allows him to stay up continue on as a racehorse and put his best foot forward.”
Having tackled the Breeder’s Plate early as a juvenile, Hidden Motive handles lengthy campaigns, which should help him peak later according to Doyle.
“He’s always a big roly-poly horse, so he takes a bit of time to come to hand,” Doyle said.
“That’s probably shown in his last preparations as well, third up when he won the Roman Consul was probably his best run.
“But we’ve had him in quite a while this time in. I think he’s probably more forward than last preparation which he’ll probably need to be, taking on that class.
“We’re really pleased with the horse and how he’s come on from that first up run.”
Quoted at $9 across all-in for the Darby Munro and $15 in the Group 2 Arrowfield Sprint (1200m) on April 11th, Doyle’s preferred subsequent assignment.
Visit betting sites to find racing betting markets for Hidden Motive’s tilt at the Darby Munro Stakes.