Irish galloper Gordon Lord Byron will run in the TJ Smtih Stakes rather than the Doncaster Mile on the opening day of The Championships at Royal Randwick. Trainer Tom Hogan confirmed on Wednesday morning that the weight-for-age sprint, worth $2.5 million, was a better target than the $3 million mile handicap on April 12. Gordon Lord Byron proved his class with a strong win in the George Ryder Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill Gardens last Saturday. Lankan Rupee, who is set to trial at Randwick on Friday, is favourite for the TJ Smith Stakes with Sportsbet.com.au at $3.50 with Buffering at $6, Zoustar at $7.50 and Gordon Lord Byron at $11. The Championships: Thoroughbred Racing’s Grand Finals