In his third Australian stint, Birdman under Chris Waller’s guidance may soon exhibit the talent his owners envisioned upon acquiring the Irish youngster.
Having won his first two staying races, Birdman was bought by a syndicate featuring Ozzie Kheir and John O’Neill hoping for future Melbourne Cup glory.
Birdman skipped last year’s Melbourne Cup but his pair of runs this preparation hint at readiness for this year’s November showdown.
Birdman’s schedule post his February 28 win in the Blamey Stakes (1600m) at Flemington includes the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) over Caulfield’s track this Saturday.
According to jockey Ben Melham, the gelding’s two most recent efforts confirm his acclimatisation to Australia, with expectations of ongoing progress.
“It took him a little while to settle in and we’re starting to see the best of him now,” Melham said.
“I feel he’s gone to a new level this preparation and can continue that upward trajectory.
“He’s a happy horse and seems to have really fitted in here now.”
The Peter Young Stakes leads towards the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington on March 28, a target shared with stablemate Buckaroo.
Buckaroo was withdrawn from the All-Star Mile at Flemington last week after a morning scope detected slight mucus, now contesting Saturday’s Peter Young Stakes.
Suspension sees Jye McNeil reclaim the mount on Buckaroo from Mark Zahra.
McNeil guided the gelding to second place in the Futurity Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield recently before riding Leica Lucy in the All-Star Mile.
Buckaroo’s Tuesday gallop at Caulfield satisfied McNeil regarding his stretch out following the small problem.
“He felt amazing,” McNeil said.
“He towed me throughout his work. He was really sharp and he seems in great order.
“He was free in his action and pulled up fine after the gallop, so there’s no indication of there being anything wrong with him.
“It’s great to get the opportunity on him second-up and the rise is distance to 1800 metres is going to be right up his alley.
“He seems to love it at Caulfield and I’m excited to get the chance to ride him again.”
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