Connections led by Tom Charlton hope for a sharp reappearance from Queensland Derby winner Maison Louis in Randwick action, eyeing possible Queensland raids later this winter.
Twelve months prior, the gelding by Super Seth triumphed in a Goulburn maiden on debut two before annexing the Group 1 Derby at race seven, experiencing patchy spring results thereafter.
The peak of his four starts last campaign was second in the Hill Stakes resuming behind veteran Lindermann, influencing the decision for a prolonged break ahead of late autumn targets.
“His form just tailed off a bit after starting really well,” Charlton said of Maison Louis’ spring preparation.
“We gave him a bit of time, so he will resume on Saturday, and he can work towards races over a bit further in Sydney and maybe Queensland.
He has a bit of weight so we’re just looking for a positive first-up run and he may go to a Gosford Cup or something like that second-up.”
With 60.5kg and draw 12, Maison Louis tackles Saturday’s First Australian Imperial Force Handicap (1500m).
Stablemate Girl About Town’s entry in the HMAS Sydney Handicap (1100m) is not locked in, with an alternative in lighter company at Kensington on Monday under consideration.
An inside draw at Randwick provides incentive though, as Charlton weighs up the respective fields before committing.
The Zousain daughter Girl About Town has caught the eye in trials, prevailing comfortably latest, and figures to acquit herself well anywhere.
“She has shown good ability,” he said.
“I’m sure there will be plenty in (Saturday’s) race with similar trials or race performances, but when she does run, she will run well.”
Charlton runs stayer King Pedro back in the Battle of the Dardanelles Handicap (1600m), and mare Polymnia takes a class drop into the Anzac Day Cup (1800m) post stakes seconds.
“Polymnia is knocking on the door. She’s racing very well, and it looks a good grade of race for her,” Charlton said.
Dylan Gibbons picks up the mounts on Charlton’s entire Randwick quartet.
Visit trusted betting sites to find racing odds for Maison Louis in the First Australian Imperial Force Handicap.