Some of the major players returned to the trials at Sydney this week. See below the runners that look ready to perform over the spring.
Beiwacht
The Godolphin colt looks in for a big spring as a 3yo on the back of a sharp 0.9L 2nd to the seasoned Palmetto in an 850m Randwick trial on Monday. He cruised past Autumn Glow under a strong hold at the 200m and extended nicely when shaken up the final 100m.
Birdman
The European import impressed in a couple of races in his first Aus prep in the autumn before ultimately disappointing in the G1 Sydney Cup. His return trial was a real eye-catcher settling slightly back of midfield and making terrific ground to finish 2.2L 3rd without being asked to do much by Zac Lloyd. Like many imports, I expect him to improve significantly in his 2nd Aus prep under Waller. He will be a watch 1st and potentially 2nd up but I can’t wait to back him over 2000m.
Pallaton
The Freedman colt looks in great order after a 0.4L win over 740m at Randwick. He settled midfield on the rail and had forged his way to the front on straightening. He wasn’t asked to do much working home but he managed to hold off rivals under a lot more pressure with his ears pricked. The 44.33s time was the quickest of any of the 2yo races of the morning. He was a 2.7L winner 1st up in his debut prep and should be ready to perform wherever he lands 1st up.
