English trainer Charlie Fellowes is poised to return to Australia later this year after identifying a potential international contender in promising colt Luther.
Having waited several years to find the right horse to travel, Fellowes believes Luther fits the bill and is eyeing a Sydney campaign rather than returning to Melbourne, where he previously tasted success with Prince Of Arran.
Luther, the subject of a controversial result in last weekend’s Grade 2 Hall of Fame Stakes at Saratoga, could be headed for the $10 million Golden Eagle (1500m) at Rosehill on November 1.
“I really like horses that can travel because they can earn great money,” Fellowes said.
“Prince Of Arran collected over £2.3 million in Melbourne and I’ve been searching for another one who can do the same. Luther looks perfect for the job.”
While a trip to Del Mar for the Breeders’ Cup remains on the table, Fellowes admits a Sydney trip appears more likely.
“At this stage, I’m leaning towards Australia. The Golden Eagle is worth 10 million Aussie dollars, and 1500 metres around Rosehill is ideal,” he said.
“He’s got a great turn of foot and the firm tracks in Australia will suit him well.”
Luther was promoted to victory at Saratoga after being hampered in the run by Zulu Kingdom, who was demoted from first to fourth. The Frankel colt now boasts three wins from nine starts, including a placing in the Grade 1 Belmont Derby (1811m).
Fellowes hasn’t had a runner in Australia since Prince Of Arran’s unlucky third in the 2020 Melbourne Cup, which capped off three straight top-three finishes in the race.
Prince Of Arran also claimed the Geelong Cup and Hotham Handicap, and placed in both the Herbert Power Stakes and the 2020 Caulfield Cup.
Luther might not be the only British visitor for the spring. William Haggas also confirmed his plans to send Sam Hawkens to Sydney after the gelding scored at Goodwood over the weekend.
Haggas has targeted the $500,000 Group 3 ATC St Leger Stakes (2600m) on October 18 with the Galileo gelding.
“We’ve booked a flight for September 5 and the race is on October 18, so we’re all set,” Haggas said following Sam Hawkens’ Coral Summer Handicap win – his fourth victory from 11 starts.