Chad Schofield has no doubts De Little Engine, winner of Saturday’s KS Environmental Handicap (2400m) at Sportingbet Park, will run out the Bagot Handicap (2800m) trip.
Schofield said the emerging stayer was strong through the line as he overhauled his rivals in convincing style, reports Racing Network.
“He just relaxes so well,” enthused Schofield.
Schofield said De Little Engine, the $1.95 favourite, was more impressive today than at Ballarat at his previous start.
He said the four-year-old had much to do to come from the rear of the field and emerge with a strong victory.
“He was strong to the line, he’s on the way up. He’s a progressive young stayer,” Schofield said.
Danny O’Brien will now take De Little Engine to Flemington on December 20 for a 2500-metre race on route to the listed $150,000 Bagot Handicap (2800m) at Flemington on January 1.
O’Brien admitted Schofield rode the four-year-old a little too confidently for his liking, but the main thing was the horse was given cover out of the wind.
“The main thing was that he progressed as a stayer today. He was better off out the back relaxing than working out wide and facing the breeze,” O’Brien said.
“Chad has great confidence in him and his staying came to the fore. He just outstayed them.
“He’s on path to the Bagot. He’ll go to Flemington in two weeks time to a 2500-metre race and if he does the job again he’ll have the right preparation to step into a good race on New Year’s day.”