Chris Waller is leaning toward sticking with his original plan for Waterford despite the gelding earning a ballot exemption into the Epsom Handicap with victory in the Shannon Stakes.

Saturday’s Shannon Stakes (1500m) triumph means Waterford is guaranteed a start in the Epsom (1600m) at Randwick next week, but Waller said discussions with owners, including media personality Richard Callander, would determine the next step.

“There are some pretty influential owners in the horse who like to have their say and I respect their say. They know what they’re talking about,” Waller said. “So we will see what they’ve got to say, otherwise it’s back here for the Alan Brown in a couple of weeks, which is a good prizemoney race too.”

While Waterford has won previously over a mile, Waller believes the Randwick 1600m may be stretching his limits, particularly against unbeaten stablemate Autumn Glow, who is favourite for the Epsom.

The trainer noted Waterford had often been unlucky in close finishes, including last year’s Theo Marks, Scone Cup and Alan Brown.

“He has been beaten small margins in some good races like the Alan Brown and Theo Marks when he hasn’t had things go his way,” Waller said.

On Saturday, the $7 chance surged past rivals halfway down the straight and drew clear, scoring by 2-1/4 lengths over Rise At Dawn ($2 fav) with Osipenko ($16) finishing close-up in third.

Jockey James McDonald said the race was in control a long way out. “He travelled really kindly throughout and just needed a bit of luck at the top of the straight,” McDonald said. “We got that and he showed a good turn of foot and he was never really in doubt.”