Trainer Greg Eurell and the connections of Red Galaxy had initially planned to target an easier race at Sandown, but a change in circumstances has led the promising galloper to a tougher assignment instead.

Red Galaxy was dual nominated for Saturday, including in the benchmark 84 Sportsbet Same Race Multi Handicap and the benchmark 100 Senet Gambling Law Experts Handicap, both over 1400 metres. With the former race oversubscribed, the decision was made to tackle the higher-grade option.

Should Red Galaxy run well in the tougher contest, a trip north for the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) at Eagle Farm on June 14 could be on the cards.

“We weren’t going to get a start in the 84, so we had to switch to the 100,” Eurell said. “We agreed that if he can hold his own in this race, he’s probably worth taking to Brisbane. If not, we’ll just keep him here.”

Saturday will mark just the sixth start for Red Galaxy, who has already posted three wins. The rising five-year-old returned with a smart victory in a benchmark 70 at Sale on May 4, and Eurell has deliberately taken his time with the lightly raced gelding.

“He’s a big horse who’s had some immaturity issues,” Eurell explained. “We had to give him time each prep — first his knees, then his fetlocks. But this time in, he’s had a smooth campaign.”

Eurell believes Red Galaxy is now physically ready to show his best and is hopeful of a strong showing on Saturday.

“It’s a big step up, no doubt, but I think he’s a quality horse,” he said. “His work has been excellent and he’s handling the preparation better than ever.”

“We’ll find out a bit more about him on Saturday. I’m excited to see how he measures up.”