The colt trainer Steve Richards says has Derby written all over him will attempt to justify his trainer's confidence by winning at Flemington on Saturday.
Richards bought the Helmet colt, now known as Sunquest, at the Magic Millions sale on the Gold Coast and despite his maiden status he is anticipating a big run in the Listed UCI Stakes over 1800m on his way to the Victoria Derby.
"I just thought he had Derby written all over him," Richards said. "He had the shape of a stayer and a great temperament and I thought he was a great buy at $80,000."
Sunquest is yet to win in seven starts but has not disappointed connections. Last time out he finished runner-up to Cliff's Edge over 1600m at Caulfield and Richards said his horse is ready to peak.
"He showed us ability right from day one - the worst race he's run was when he was fifth behind Eshtiraak and Sircconi leading into the Sires' Produce but he came out of that shin sore so we put him away," Richards said.
"I know some people are saying he should be winning a maiden first but it's not that simple.
"It's more important to me to be running him on good tracks, plus I know he's good enough to be winning a race in town, he just needs luck to go his way."
Richards said apart from Sunquest's physique, his relaxed nature is ideal for a stayer.
"He's so relaxed in the stable and in his work and you wouldn't know he's a colt, his temperament is terrific," Richards said.
"I know he's got to put his hand up on Saturday if he's going to be a Derby horse but he's had the two runs this prep and I can't wait to see him on a big track and over a bit of ground."
Dwayne Dunn was aboard Sunquest, available at $8.50 with several wagering operators, last time out and is again in the saddle on Saturday.
