In preparation for his bid to secure consecutive triumphs in the prestigious 2000m Group 1 Australian Cup at Flemington this Saturday, Cascadian, who clinched victory in last year's edition after a swift turnaround from the All-Star Mile, enjoys an extended interval between the two marquee events, a strategy endorsed by his handler, James Cummings.
Reflecting on Cascadian's prospects, Cummings remarked, “Cascadian's had a good week since the All-Star Mile.
“His effort to finish third was very solid, he's just racing so well, and the step up to ten furlongs looks good now he's had the right grounding.”
With a discernible advantage conferred by the additional week, Cummings noted,
“Probably this year it's (the break between runs) an advantage, given that I've raced him so sparingly in the last 12 months.
“Just that little bit more time to get over the All-Star Mile is ideal.
“Last year he was just booming that week and with clear running we just couldn't see him being held back and he flooded home.
“This time, given he only had the one run (in spring), we've just taken our time with him.”