The Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young-trained Keeneland is being aimed at the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) this winter following an explanation for his disappointing run in last month’s Group 1 Victoria Derby (2500m).
The gelded son of Almanzor finished tenth in the 2500-metre Classic, despite appearing to be a winning chance as he surged to the front on the home turn before fading late.
“He looked like the winner and then he gave absolutely nothing,” Busuttin told Racing.com.
“There had to be an excuse, and we had him scoped. The vets found he had an entrapped epiglottis.
“Since then, he’s had a minor procedure to correct it.”
Busuttin added: “He peeled out like he was going to win, which is what his jockey Hugh Bowman thought as well, but he just didn’t let down.
“That’s no surprise, as that’s what’s going to happen when you can’t get any air in.
“You just can’t pick up if that’s the case.”
Acknowledging the quick turnaround from the Victoria Derby to Sydney, the trainers have decided to take their time, with their focus now on the Queensland Derby.
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