Journalists Wandering Eyes Posted April 10 Journalists Share Posted April 10 Ceolwulf after winning the Group 3 Neville Sellwood Stakes at Rosehill. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au Ceolwulf will get his chance to prove he belongs among Australia’s elite middle-distance horses when he lines up in Saturday’s Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) at Randwick. A dual Group 1 winner during the spring, Ceolwulf’s autumn preparation has been far from smooth, with a minor injury forcing him to miss the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m). He then contested two races over unsuitable trips before grinding out a tough win last start in the Group 2 Neville Sellwood Stakes. While his performance that day lacked the authority many expected, trainer Joe Pride believes it was a crucial stepping stone. “There’s been a lot said about his run,” Pride said. “It normally is a combination of things, there’s not normally one answer to any question in racing. We got a heavy track, had him going up 500 metres, a very slowly run race and a big weight. “It wasn’t one of his best performances, but I think it was the run he needed at 2000 metres to bring him right on and that’s what it looks like it’s done. He’ll run really well on Saturday.” Pride is optimistic the talented gelding can be just as effective at 2000 metres in elite company as he has been at the mile. “We’ll find out on Saturday,” he said. “It was just like a launching pad, the run at 2000 metres (in the spring), and I think this will be the same. “The difference between a 1000-metre horse and 1200-metre horse is massive, but a mile to 2000 metres is not that same kind of hurdle.” Horse racing news View the full article Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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