EXCITING unbeaten Warrnambool colt Tydeus faces the toughest task of his short career in the $200,000 Danehill Stakes at Flemington on Saturday.
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Trainer Lindsey Smith has been forced to head to Melbourne with Tydeus after the three-year-old scored impressive wins at Warrnambool and Bendigo at his first two starts.
Champion jockey Michael Rodd, who has ridden Tydeus in his two country victories, will be in the saddle for the group two race.
"Tydeus has scored two impressive wins from two starts," Smith said.
"Both wins have been very good but it's a massive leap in class from country races to taking on group two horses in the Danehill.
"He's given us every indication that he's up to that level but we'll know more after his run on Saturday.
"He's always shown us that he had some ability. I've left future plans open for him as I want to see how he runs in the Danehill."
Bookmakers have installed Tydeus as a $9.50 chance of winning the Danehill in early betting markets.
Smith also has Great Again, Adelaide Ace and Rivet Delight running on the nine-race program.
"I would say Great Again is heading for a spell after this run," the multiple group one-winning trainer said.
"I think Adelaide Ace will be improved on the back of his first-up run at Caulfield.
"We may push forward to the Toorak Handicap if he runs well on Saturday while Rivet Delight is up against a tough field in his race."
Veteran galloper Gailo Chop lines up for Warrnambool trainer Matthew Williams in the $750,000 Makybe Diva Stakes. Top jockey John Allen has been booked for the ride on the 10-year-old.
The in-form training combination of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace have numerous runners at Flemington.
Prague looks to be their best chance for success while lightly-raced stayer Cadre du Noir is a short priced favourite to win at Rosehill for the Maher-Eustace stable.
