Trainer Jamie Edwards has confirmed that progressive stayer Sertorius is a good chance to be included in the field for the Group 2 2013 Zipping Classic (2400m) that will be run at Caulfield on Saturday.
Sertorius may get the opportunity to turn-the-tables on Precedence in the Group 2 Zipping Classic at Caulfield on Saturday. Photo by: Race Horse Photos Australia
Sertorius was beaten by a nose by veteran stayer Precedence in the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2600m) at Flemington last Saturday and Edwards said that the six-year-old has come out of the race in excellent condition.
The Galileo gelding was included in the nominations for both the Zipping Classic and the Listed Sandown Cup (3200m) but Edwards said that Sertorius was more likely to be entered for the Zipping Classic and a possible rematch with Precedence this weekend.
“This is the best he has ever come through a race,” Edwards told TVN.
“He simply couldn’t be better and I can’t find any reason why we shouldn’t run him again
“The final decision will be made tomorrow, but looking at the horse in front of me now, I’d say he’ll be running.
“The prize-money is fabulous and it won’t be a big field, and like I say, the horse is just 100 percent.
Sertorius has always shown plenty of potential, winning five straight starts at the end of 2012, and is now starting to produce his best form at Group level.
The six-year-old started his 2013 Spring Racing Carnival campaign with an impressive sixth in the Group 3 Bobbie Lewis Quality (1200) at Flemington before finishing second in both the in the Jeep Don’t Hold Back Handicap (1500m) at Moonee Valley and the Group 2 Cranbourne Cup (2025m).
After his unlucky second place finish behind Pakal at Cranbourne, Sertorius started the Listed Bendigo Cup (2400m) as clear favourite and won in impressive fashion from imported stayers Massiyn and Kesampour; his first ever win at black type level.
Sertorius was unlucky not to record a maiden Group 3 victory in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes but Edwards said that he and connections are simply happy that the progressive gelding is starting to live up to his potential.
“We’re reaping the benefits now because we have been so patient and the owner has never once argued,” Edwards said.
“He’s been amazing.”
The Zipping Classic drew a disappointing set of nominations yesterday; with Precedence and Geelong Cup winner Ibicenco the only previous Group winners that are a chance to contest the $350,000 race.
