Performing to a high standard over his most recent racing preparation, trainer Chris Waller is confident of a polished first-up performance for new stable acquisition Kencella in this weekend’s Listed Carlyon Stakes (1000m) at Moonee Valley.
Kencella is reportedly in peak condition ahead of this weekend's Carlyon Stakes. Photo: Steve Hart
Beginning his racing career under the guidance of now-private Godolphin trainer John O’Shea, Kencella has so-far secured an impressive total of six wins and two minor places from just 10 competitive starts, highlighting by a near two length victory in the Group 3 Maurice McCarten Stakes (1100m) at Rosehill on March 22nd this year.
Partnering the son of Exceed And Excel in an impressive barrier trial on Tuesday morning, Melbourne stable representative for Waller Justine Hales is confident the Carlyon Stakes poses a perfect first-up tilt for Kencella this time in.
“It was a nice chance to take him around there and he handled the track really well,” Hales told AAP of the 800m trial.
“He worked really well.
“He should get around Moonee Valley easily, especially over 1000 metres and kick off the bend.”
Claiming victory in each of his first two starts over his most recent preparation through the summer and early 2014 Autumn Carnival, Kencella continued to build in form and class on his way to second in the Become An ATC Sponsor 3.y.o +(1100m).
Again securing back-to-back race wins over two minor events over 1000m at Rosehill Gardens, the gelding out of Kentiara proved he was more than capable of mixing it in black-type company when winning the Maurice McCarten Stakes, however returned to the paddock after failing to fire and 11th (of 13) in the Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) on March 29th.
Yet to be confirmed for a path through the 2014 Spring Racing Carnival beyond the Carlyon Stakes, Waller is likely to target open company sprinter events with Kencella this time in, with a consideration of class to be decided following his first few starts.
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