Michael Kent Jnr admits that Warmonger may be facing one of the toughest editions of the Tancred Stakes in recent memory, but the Cranbourne-based trainer remains optimistic as the gelding returns to peak form.
The four-year-old is set to contest the 2400m Group 1 event at Rosehill this Saturday, aiming to secure his first victory since his triumph in last year’s Queensland Derby.
A formidable lineup is expected, including international star Dubai Honour, resurgent import Vauban, Caulfield Cup champion Duke De Sessa, and last year’s winner Arapaho. However, Kent has been encouraged by Warmonger’s performances in his two outings this preparation.
Most recently, Warmonger delivered an eye-catching second-place finish behind Alalcance in the Randwick City Cup (2000m), a result that gained further credibility when Alalcance dominated Saturday’s Group 3 Manion Cup (2400m).
“Second-up at 2000 he was much, much better, it was a very good run and the form has stood up with Alalcance bolting over 2400,” Kent, who trains in partnership with Mick Price, said.
“It is looking one of the best editions of the Tancred that I can recall, it’s a very deep race with Vauban, Dubai Honour and Duke De Sessa, just to name a few.
“It’s a really, really hot race but he’s going super.”
Warmonger is among 22 nominees for the Tancred Stakes, which shares the spotlight with the $1 million Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m), headlined by top Victorian filly Treasurethe Moment.
Having secured his Queensland Derby victory on a rain-affected track, Warmonger has demonstrated his ability to handle different conditions. While early forecasts suggest fine weather leading into the race, there is a chance of rain on Saturday.
“I think he gets through wet, but he showed last start on very firm ground that he could sprint at the end of 2000,” Kent said.
“Last start was the fastest he’s ever sprinted home his last 600 – he was home in sub-34 (seconds) – which is very good for Warmonger.
“That gives us good confidence out to 2400m. He’s a true stayer and he’ll be right in the race.”