It might just be a barrier trial, but Kerrin Mcevoy expects Celestial Legend’s first public appearance of the season to provide an important guide to his spring program.
The Doncaster Mile hero will step out in a tantalising 850 metre heat at Randwick on Friday which also showcases 2022 Everest winner Giga Kick, Golden Slipper victor Lady Of Camelot and exciting young colt Linebacker.
Several races have been bandied about as options for Celestial Legend this spring, including The Everest (1200m), while he is an equal favourite for the Epsom Handicap (1600m) and a dominant top pick for the Golden Eagle (1500m).
McEvoy says Friday’s trial will give connections a clearer guide on which path to take.
“This trial will determine where he goes in regard to his preparation,” McEvoy said.
“I am presuming he’s going to be out there to have a bit of an extended trial.
“He’s got a nice heat there with Giga Kick, Linebacker, Lady Of Camelot. It’s a nice trial.”
While McEvoy missed Celestial Legend’s Doncaster triumph, he has ridden the four-year-old in half of his eight starts, including his Group 1 Randwick Guineas victory.
He has also been aboard him regularly at trackwork and while the transition from three to four can be difficult for some horses, McEvoy is adamant that won’t be a problem for Bridge’s grey.
“He’ll make it,” he said.
“He has been sharp in his work and progressed nicely. Les has been able to get a good base into him and I’m looking forward to the trial.
“He is at the early stages of his prep like all of them, but he is giving us a good vibe at the moment.”
James Mcdonald partners Giga Kick in the trial as the horse continues his comeback from a serious muscle tear that has kept him sidelined since his controversial third to Imperatriz in the McEwen Stakes last September.
The five-year-old has had the benefit of a recent Mornington jump out and is being readied for a return in the Concorde Stakes (1000m) at Randwick on September 7.
Friday’s trial session also features the likes of Caulfield Cup favourite Fawkner Park, top sprinter Private Eye and high-profile Tulloch Lodge colt Storm Boy.
