Since undergoing a name change and prizemoney boost, the Q22 has been a happy hunting ground for trainer Annabel Neasham, who will bid to continue her clean sweep of the new-look race with defending titleholder Numerian.
Formerly the P J O’Shea Stakes, the feature was revamped and in 2021, Zaaki took out the inaugural running before stablemate Numerian triumphed last year.
While Zaaki is in the spelling paddock following his disappointing performance in the Doomben Cup (2000m), Neasham’s racing manager Rob Archibald has confirmed Numerian will return to the scene of his biggest win.
The gelding came off a Gosford Gold Cup victory to snare the $1.2 million feature 12 months ago and heads to this year’s race with an arguably better form reference after finishing runner-up to Huetor in the Doomben Cup.
Numerian showed great determination in the weight-or-age race, tracking wide and appearing to come off the bit before the home turn then digging deep to be narrowly edged out by the winner.
Archibald said the seven-year-old had come through the run well and would be given the chance to go back-to-back in the Q22 (2200m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
“It was a really big run from him last start but hopefully he can go one better in the Q22,” Archibald said.
“He’s thriving and we’re really happy with him.
“He’s going to have to be at the top of his game against that level of horse but if he is, he can certainly put himself in the mix.”
A field of 14 was paid up for the Q22 when final fields were released on Wednesday with Huetor again among Numerian’s rivals, while three-year-old Fame adds interest as he steps out to open company after finishing runner-up to Kovalica in the Queensland Derby.
Numerian will be one of three Eagle Farm runners for Neasham along with Holyfield in the $3 million Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) and the consistent Manhood in the Listed Makers Mark Hinkler Handicap (1200m).
While Numerian has fared well with gate two, both Holyfield (barrier 21) and Manhood (barrier 17) will have to overcome wide draws.
