The winners of two of Australia’s biggest juvenile races are heading to the paddock for well-earned spells ahead of their three-year-old campaigns.
Golden Slipper winner Stay Inside and Blue Diamond victor Artorius will miss the remainder of the Sydney Autumn Carnival after their respective connections announced they were paddock bound.
Michael Freedman, co-trainer with his brother Richard of Stay Inside, had announced on Monday that Stay Inside was to press on towards the Group 1 Inglis Sires’ (1400m) at Randwick on April 10.
But 24 hours later, following a meeting with connections, it was announced Stay Inside would spell and have a shot at the spring.
No spring goals have been advised, but races like the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes, the Group 1 Golden Rose and The Everest could be on the agenda.
Following his win in the Blue Diamond at Caulfield in February, Artorius was going to bypass the Golden Slipper and be set for the Sires’ and Group 1 Champagne Stakes (1600m) on April 24.
After paying a $150,000 late entry fee into the Slipper and after settling last, Artorius wound up in sixth position.
It was announced on Twitter that the Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained two-year-old would bypass the remainder of the carnival.
A three-year-old campaign will be decided upon once Artorius resumes later in the year.
Melbourne spring options for the colt may include the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m) or the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington on the opening day of the Melbourne Cup carnival.