Caulfield Plan Confirmed For Scottish

Charlie Appleby has confirmed a trip to Australia is on the agenda for his recent York winner Scottish (Ire) (Teofilo {Ire}). The 4-year-old, who was bought by Godolphin earlier this year from Jim and Fitri Hay, was rewarded for his consistency when beating South African Group 1 winner Yorker (SAf) (Jet Master {SAf}) in the G3 Betfred Strensall S. over nine furlongs Aug. 20. “He went up another 3lbs for his win at York and that was his ticket to Australia,” Appleby said. “He will probably head to the [G1] Caulfield Cup. It is stepping up to a mile and a half, but it's an easy mile and a half around Moonee Valley. It was good for him to get his head in front and it is good he is going there on the back of a win,” he added.
Another horse also in the mix for a trip down under is Big Orange (GB) (Duke of Marmalade {Ire}). Michael Bell's 5-year-old is enjoying a fine campaign and notched up his second Group 2 win in succession when seeing off Pallasator (GB) (Motivator {GB}) in the Qatar Goodwood Cup last month. A potential bid for the G1 Palmerstown Estate Irish St Leger has been put on hold with a G1 Melbourne Cup challenge back on the agenda. Bill and Tim Gredley's gelding finished fifth last year at Flemington carrying 8st 10lbs and his allotted weight this year will have a bearing on whether he travels or not. “Big Orange is healthy and well, but we probably won't be going to Ireland, although no firm decision has been made yet,” said Michael Bell. “I've got to talk again to Mr Gredley, but we are keen to go to Australia and we are waiting to see what weight he is given before loading the cannon. But Mr Gredley will make the final call.”