Hezashocka wins at Flemington. Picture: Racing Photos
Hezashocka has been nominated for the $5m All-Star Mile to be run on March 18 at Moonee Valley but is unlikely to actually target the feature race according to OTI Racing’s Terry Henderson.
“He’s on the list, but I’d be very surprised if he goes there,” Henderson said.
“We’ve got him lined up for the Australian Cup (March 25, 2000m). He’s not a 1600m horse, I would think that if he’s ready he’ll probably run in the prelude and then go on from there.”
Co-trainer Mick Price has previously touted a Sydney campaign for the promising staying prospect, with Henderson believing the Sydney Cup could be a realistic option for the five-year-old gelding.
“It’ll be interesting to see how far we get with him in terms of the Sydney Cup,” Henderson said.
“We think he’s a stayer.
“We might even give him a Queensland campaign, there are some nice races up there for a horse like him.
“It’s such a tight turnaround from spring to autumn, it’s hard to give them a break and then bring them back.”
Hezashocka is rated a $17 winning hope in the Australian Cup with Sportsbet.