Trainer Danny O’Brien is readying two of his stable stars, Vow And Declare and Young Werther, for pivotal summer campaigns in separate Cup races.
Vow And Declare will contest the $300,000 Pakenham Cup (2500m) this Saturday.
The 2019 Melbourne Cup winner has shown promising signs after a challenging spring campaign, including a luckless run in the Geelong Cup.
“We’re really pleased with him. He’s in good shape. He should run well on a firm track on the lovely spacious Pakenham circuit, which will suit him. There are a lot of positives for him,” O’Brien said.
Craig Williams will take the ride.
Young Werther, meanwhile, is set for the $1 million Perth Cup (2400m) on New Year’s Day after confirming his fitness with a solid seventh at Caulfield last Saturday.
His earlier Tatt’s Cup victory showcased his capability on firm ground.
“Turnbull Stakes Day and Caulfield Cup Day, the conditions were diabolical,” O’Brien noted, highlighting how improved conditions have been key to his recent form.
Damian Lane has been booked to ride.
With both horses listed at $6 odds with online betting sites, O’Brien is hopeful the firm tracks will bring out their best.