Group 1-winning galloper Veight has been gelded, with connections setting their sights on next year’s prestigious Group 1 The Goodwood (1200m) at Morphettville in May.
The decision marks a shift in focus for the talented horse, originally considered a potential stallion prospect.
The George Ryder Stakes winner received limited interest from breeders, prompting connections to continue his career on the track in pursuit of rich feature races.
Trainer Tony McEvoy, who works in partnership with his son Calvin, explained the rationale behind the decision in an interview with Racing.com.
“You never like gelding a horse of this quality,” McEvoy said.
“But the reality was that the phone wasn’t ringing, and the offers that came through weren’t significant.
“He’s capable of earning a million dollars in a preparation, so the call was made to keep him racing.”
McEvoy indicated that The Goodwood Handicap in Adelaide will be a key target, with the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) in Queensland also on the radar.
“The prize money on offer in these races is incredible,” he said. “Veight has proven himself at the top level, and we believe he can continue to do so.”
The four-year-old is currently enjoying a spell after contesting the Golden Eagle at Rosehill. Plans are in place for Veight to return to training in the late autumn.
“He’s having a well-deserved break right now,” McEvoy said. “We’ll bring him back with a focus on a late autumn campaign and build towards those big races.”
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