Local trainer Andrew Gluyas has opted to send Air Assault to Saturday’s Group 1 South Australian Derby (2500m) at Morphettville following the gelding’s third-place finish in the Group 3 Chairman’s Stakes (2000m) last Saturday.
The son of Justify was overtaken in the final strides of the 2000-metre Group 3 event, finishing 0.6 lengths behind the winner, Bold Soul.
Now, he prepares to return to the 2500-metre distance for the first time since his 13th-place run in the Group 1 Victoria Derby (2500m) last November.
Reflecting on Air Assault’s progression, Gluyas shared with Racing.com, “He obviously failed in the Victoria Derby at the trip in the spring, but I firmly believe he is a more mature, seasoned racehorse now.”
Gluyas considered alternative options, stating, “We did have the option of keeping him back a week and going to The (Bart) Cummings against the older horses over a mile on Goodwood Day.”
Expressing his confidence in Air Assault’s abilities, Gluyas concluded, “Ultimately his form this campaign has been faultless, and he has earned his shot at the big race on Saturday.”
Air Assault is marked a +1800 winning chance with online betting sites for Saturday’s South Australian Derby.