Trainer Chris Waller remains optimistic about Manzoice’s chances as the 2022 Victoria Derby winner prepares for his comeback in Saturday’s Premier’s Cup Prelude (1800m) at Randwick.
“He will be the first of our spring runners,” Waller stated.
“The stayers, you’ve got to get them up and going early.
“They will go there (on Saturday) and then to another race in two or three weeks’ time, like a Wyong Cup, then you’re just about at the Metropolitan.”
Manzoice, who has been gelded since his 2022 Derby triumph, has not tasted victory since, but Waller highlighted encouraging signs from last season, including a second-place finish in the Group 3 Manion Cup (2400m) and fifth in the Listed Randwick City Stakes (2000m).
“He has shown glimpses of form,” Waller acknowledged.
“He’s first-up over 1800 metres but in his trials, we have been trying to ride him a bit closer. He’s a lovely horse.
“He shows us a lot more at home, but if you’ve won a Derby, you don’t just lose it completely.
“We’ve still got hope that he can come back, and he will head towards a Metropolitan.”
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