French raider Vadamos produced an impressive piece of work at Moonee Valley on Monday ahead of Saturday’s Group I Cox Plate (2040m).
After trotting a lap, the ear muffs came off and Damien Oliver got on to work over 1500m in 1:48.51 with the last 400m in 23.49 seconds and done with ease.
The Andre Fabre-trained Vadamos won the Group I Prix du Moulin over 1600m at Chantilly last time out on September 11 and Oliver said the five-year-old entire handled Moonee Valley comfortably.
"I was really happy with him this morning,” Oliver said.
"It's my second sit on the horse and he was much more relaxed - I think he enjoyed the different track and scenery.
"He adapted to the track very well and probably more importantly, he got on his right leg and switched legs around the corners.
"He's settling into Australia well - the first time I rode him he was a bit strong but he settled well this morning."
With Oliver suspended champion Hong Kong rider Joao Moreira has been booked to ride Vadamos in Saturday's $3 million weight-for-age feature and Oliver said the son of Monsun should not be underestimated.
"We've got Winx and Hartnell in outstanding form at the moment but I think he's got the X-factor and probably one of the few that is capable of causing an upset," Oliver said.
"He's a forward runner and there doesn't appear to be a leader or a strong tempo so that should suit him."
Sportsbet has Vadamos on the third line of all-in betting for the Cox Plate at $15.
