Grand Promenade has broken through for a long overdue win at Sandown and is now likely to attempt to win his way into the 2021 Melbourne Cup at his next outing.
The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace – trained galloper took out the Ladbroke It Handicap (2400m) on Saturday and is likely to return in a fortnight’s time for the Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) at Flemington.
Victory in the Andrew Ramsden provides the winner a ballot exemption into November’s Melbourne Cup.
Ridden by John Allen, Grand Promenade was sent off the $2 Ladbrokes favourite in defeating Green Ivy ($18) by 2-¾ lengths with Johandough ($7.50) a short-neck away third.
Grand Promenade broke a 412-day winning streak with his win on Saturday.
“I think people were a bit unfair on him at his last two starts,” Eustace said.
“He’s a genuine mile-and-a-half horse and did very well to finish where he did over 2000 metres.
“I think things didn’t really go to plan in the spring. He ran well early in the prep but probably didn’t come up quite as well, so he’ll improve again over a bit more ground and he’ll probably head to the Ramsden.
“He’s the right age group and he’ll stay the trip no trouble at all and he’ll improve for going a bit further.
“We’ve got a few chances in the race and he’s one of them.”
Allen said Grand Promenade has made the required step this preparation while also noting the gelding was still a work-in-progress.
“He’s very clear-winded. He had no worries running that trip and can get even further,” Allen said.
“I’m sure some of those better staying races, he might be in the mix further into his career.”