Nadal will lead Ciaron Maher’s potential three-pronged attack in the inaugural running of The Supernova (1400m) at Pakenham on Saturday.
The four-year-old aims for a clean sweep of Southside Racing’s two slot races in the $1 million contest, following his victory in Cranbourne’s $1 million The Meteorite (1200m) on November 23. The son of Xtravagant will tackle 1400 metres for the first time since finishing 11th in last season’s Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m).
“I’m not concerned, but there’s a question mark,” said Maher’s assistant trainer, Jack Turnbull, regarding the distance rise.
“He ran three lengths behind Militarize at his only go at that trip. There is that to think about, but that was a messy race and he was younger.
“If he relaxes and there’s good speed, I’d be confident he’ll get it – I think class will take him a long way.”
Nadal was given a ‘tickover’ jump-out at Cranbourne last Monday, with rider Dylan Browne McMonagle offering a glowing report.
“That’ll be his gallop and he’ll just tiptoe through now as his fitness is fine,” Turnbull added.
Maher will also saddle Chorlton Lane, who won the Canberra Community Chest (1400m) on November 24.
The five-year-old will represent the Moonee Valley Racing Club in Saturday’s race, while negotiations are ongoing to secure a position for Listed winner Warnie in the starting gates.
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