Warmonger may no longer be the frontrunner in betting for Saturday's $5 million Caulfield Cup, but co-trainer Mick Price is optimistic that the step up to 2400 metres will reignite the gelding's form. Price, who trains Warmonger in partnership with Michael Kent Jnr, believes the increased distance will play to the horse's strengths and bring out his best in what has always been his main spring target.
After a solid first-up fourth in the 1600m Makybe Diva Stakes, Warmonger disappointed many when finishing 11th in the 2000m Turnbull Stakes on October 5. Price admitted the run was below expectations, but his post-race assessment left him encouraged.
“I thought he raced a bit dour and maybe I underestimated his fitness levels, thinking he was a few lengths short of where he should be,” Price said. “But after the Turnbull, I checked his heart rate—it was surprisingly low, about 80, which tells me he's fit and ready for the Caulfield Cup.”
Price has adjusted Warmonger's preparation, easing off his training and keeping him fresh for Saturday. He also noted that rain could improve Warmonger’s chances further. Warmonger has proven himself at longer distances before, with a runner-up finish in the Group 1 South Australian Derby (2500m) and an impressive 10.5-length win in the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m).
Although he was the Caulfield Cup favourite before the Turnbull Stakes, Warmonger's odds have drifted to as high as $17 ahead of the final field announcement and barrier draw on Tuesday. However, Price’s confidence remains high, and jockey Michael Dee, who has ridden Warmonger throughout this campaign, will retain the ride as the four-year-old carries 53.5kg into the race.
As Saturday approaches, Price remains hopeful that Warmonger will prove his critics wrong and deliver a standout performance in the Caulfield Cup.
