Cherry Tortoni (Image: Racing Photos)
Patrick Payne says he couldn't be happier with Victoria Derby favourite Cherry Tortoni ahead of Friday's Stutt Stakes.
The talented three-year-old has also accepted for the Caulfield Guineas Prelude on Saturday, however, Payne's intention is to head to The Valley.
"We are really keen to run at Moonee Valley on Friday night, but we just thought just to be on the safe side, and the big wet comes through (and the races get called off), we wouldn't want to be left with nothing," Payne said.
"He is ready to go and this race fits well into his campaign. He needs to race this weekend, and it will be perfect."
Cherry Tortoni stretched his legs out at The Valley on Monday morning, galloping over 1000m and clocking a final 400m in 25.52 seconds.
"He is a lovely horse to deal with. He had a nice little gallop at Moonee Valley on Monday morning and he's in good shape," Payne said.
"(The gallop on Monday) was just to get him out of the house for the day, basically. He had a very easy time."
Billy Egan will ride from barrier 7.
Cherry Tortoni is currently $7 for the Victoria Derby with Sportsbet.
Meanwhile, Payne says he will look to step Widgee Turf up and out to 2000m this preparation.
The veteran heads to Caulfield on Saturday and will contest a 1700-metre handicap with Egan to ride from barrier 7.
"I'm really happy with the horse training-wise. But his form is very ordinary," Payne said.
"But the wet is coming through, he likes it, we've always thought about getting him to 2000m.
"He just seems like he is an older horse now. He's not as quick as he used to be.
"I'd retire him if he had a problem, but he's in great health."