An impressive Randwick barrier trial win has Agadir ready to step up dramatically in class when he lines up in the Group 2 $350,000 Sky Racing Queensland Guineas (1400m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Darley's number one rider Kerrin McEvoy believes that Agadir has the class to perform well in the Queensland Guineas. Photo by Race Horse Photos Australia.

The lightly raced Agadir has won three of his five starts, all in restricted company, but jockey Kerrin McEvoy feels that the three year old has the ability to tackle Group 2 company first up.

“He is forward enough fitness wise and we always had a bit of an opinion of him,” McEvoy told the Sportsman.

“I’d say Group 2 is his level probably and we will be looking to see how he hits the boards.”

“He’s come off a nice trial the other day and is in good order so II am looking forward to him lining up.”

“Everything points to him being a little bit more mature and that will have him good stead come Saturday.”

Agadir won his first three race starts at Muswellbrook, Kembla Grange and Warwick Farm before finishing third and second at Randwick in restricted class races over 1600m.

New Darley trainer John O’Shea decided to tackle the 1400m Queensland Guineas first up and is happy with the way the Bernardini colt is shaping up after his win over 1050m at the Randwick trials on May 23.

“John has been pleased with him and he goes there with every chance,” McEvoy said.

Agadir will probably jump from barrier five if the emergencies don’t get a start and McEvoy is likely to take up a handy position on the three year old.

Agadir is well respected in the Queensland Guineas market order with Ladbrokes.com.au offering $8 about the Darley colt.

South Australian trained Hucklebuck heads the betting at $4.60 just ahead of last start Group 3 Fred Best Classic winner Havana at $5.50 and Dothraki at $7 while Kiwi filly Costa Viva is the only other runner under double figures at $9.