3 minute read

Gelding set to line-up in Andrew Ramsden at Flemington

Having finished fourth in the Caulfield Cup (Gr 1, 2400m) in 2019, co-trainer is hoping Constantinople (Galileo) can return to that sort of form when he lines up in the Andrew Ramsden Stakes (Listed, 2800m) at Flemington on Saturday and in the process gain a start in the Melbourne Cup (Gr 1, 3200m). 

Hayes said the signs were there that Constantinople was ready to produce a good run after his fifth placing in the Warrnambool Cup (Listed, 2350m) on May 6. 

"The stable's very happy, the ownership group was very happy and he looks to have handled the run well," Hayes told RSN. 

"He's now fit, fourth up into a 2800-metre race, so we're hoping for another improved run." 

Constantinople suffered bone bruising to all four fetlocks after his two initial Australian starts and after two runs in the autumn of 2020 was turned out for a spell. 

After one spring run last year, he was again turned out and gelded. 

"I think he's been away from racing for a long time and it has taken those runs to get that base fitness into him," Hayes said. 

"Now he's had those runs, he's sound, moving well and I think his run in the Warrnambool Cup told us he's progressing in the right direction. 

"I think he'll run a nice race. He's got the ability, it's just whether he can bring it on race day."