Tyler Schiller’s premier Group One engagement on the opening leg of The Championships at Randwick is Briasa, protector of the T J Smith Stakes crown, but he sees greater potential in his two lesser-noticed alternatives.

Besides that, the expert hoop connects with Paul Preusker’s Steparty ($19) in the Doncaster Mile (1600m) and Dezignation ($151) from Matt Smith’s stable for the ATC Australian Derby (2400m), both of whom he deems capable of major impacts.

Positioned as the extreme roughie in the Derby contest, Dezignation nevertheless surged to claim fifth from this weekend’s adversary Storm Leopard ($5) in the Tulloch Stakes (2000m), distinguishing himself through confirmed suitability for the full distance over many foes.

Having taken the mount on the gelding for the debut time in that prep run, Schiller departed favorably inclined.

“He sneaks in off a really good run in the Tulloch,” Schiller said.

“He got back and was taken off the bridle a long way from home, and he stayed on super strong. He just needed a bit further, which he is going to get this weekend.

“As long as he backs up, he’s going to have a really good chance, and he’s got a lovely barrier compared to his outside barrier the other day.

“If it’s a good staying test, he is going to be in the finish.”

Steparty similarly escapes the limelight in the Doncaster Mile, where talk dominates around impressive filly Sheza Alibi.

A repeated Group 1 podium finisher, the five-year-old has sampled Sydney runs earlier, including second in the 2024 The Ingham (1600m) via the Doncaster path.

Following successive victories in Tasmania this February, he enters Saturday’s showcase after a near-miss fifth to Tom Kitten during the All-Star Mile (1600m) at Flemington, aided by a favorable gate six for a conservative ride.

“He’s a really nice horse. He’s got a great attitude and he’s another one flying under the radar,” Schiller said.

“He got beaten a length and a bit in the All-Star Mile off a tough, wide run, and he’s going as good as ever.

“Fingers crossed, barrier six is a lovely barrier in the Doncaster. Hopefully he can bounce and get a bit of cover somewhere and save himself for late. He drops a lot in weight, so I think he might surprise a few people.”

Across recent three weight-for-age efforts, Steparty managed 59kg, dropping to 51.5kg for Randwick.

Schiller pursues an initial Derby conquest alongside a follow-up Doncaster Mile after Celestial Legend’s success under him two years ago.

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