Connections of Detonator Jack are playing the long game this spring as they gear the horse’s preparation towards the $3 million Big Dance at Randwick on Melbourne Cup day.

The gelding passed the first qualification clause with his runner-up finish in the Hawkesbury Cup in May and will take the next step on the path towards his goal in the 7 Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on Saturday.

Johann Gerard-Dubord, Sydney foreman for trainer Ciaron Maher, is confident of another strong showing from the six-year-old, who was beaten less than two lengths when fifth to Via Sistina on resumption in the Winx Stakes (1400m).

“He is qualified for the Big Dance, so that’s his main target for the preparation. That will be a lovely race for him,” Gerard-Dubord said.

“He’s facing Fangirl again and a couple of those horses, but he’s drawn well and if there is a bit of speed he can travel, and he’s got a very good turn of foot.

“He wasn’t far off them the other day and he’s got natural improvement. He should run well again.”

Detonator Jack has posted half of his six wins on rain-affected ground, including his biggest in last year’s $1 million The Gong (1600m) at Kembla Grange.

However, his Winx Stakes effort indicates he is no pushover on firmer surfaces and also supports his stable’s theory that he has returned in peak form.

“He’s a typical Kiwi horse, very late maturing,” Gerard-Dubord said.

“He is a big, strong boy. He has improved every preparation and we know him better too now.

“He is better with a bit of give, but he runs well on firm tracks too.”

Jason Collett has the ride on Detonator Jack from barrier one.