Speycaster will look to defend his title in the Stayer’s Cup (2400m) this Saturday, a race he won last year after a form turnaround that came through patience and a change of environment.

The gelding struggled for consistency in Victoria, prompting trainer Chris Waller to shift him to their Sydney base. The initial result in the Lord Mayors Cup (2000m) wasn’t promising, but signs of improvement emerged with a solid fourth in the Winter Cup (2400m).

“He was much better last start,” said Waller’s assistant Charlie Duckworth. “He had been really plain and needed to lift but he did. I thought he was almost going to win at one point.”

“It’s just ultimately match fitness, especially with those older geldings.”

Speycaster followed a similar path last season when a disappointing Winter Cup effort preceded his win in the Stayer’s Cup. He’ll face a field of mostly out-of-form rivals this weekend and is rated a $6.50 shot.

Among his competition is Alegron, last year’s Brisbane Cup winner, who hasn’t fired this campaign. The Bjorn Baker-trained stayer returns to Sydney after four unplaced runs in Queensland.

“He hasn’t been racing at his best but he hasn’t had any luck with tracks and the speed of races,” said racing manager Luke Hilton. “If he can find his best he’s in that race on Saturday.”

Casual Connection heads the betting at $3.10, with Alegron at $9 and Speycaster a strong value contender at $6.50.

For punters seeking to bet on the Stayer’s Cup, check out the best Australian bookmakers and offers at Just Horse Racing.