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Toga Picta ready for Stutt Stakes test

Darryl Sherer - Monday September 25

Toga Picta had his first look at Moonee Valley on Monday ahead of him racing in Friday night's Group II Stutt Stakes (1600m) and passed his first test comfortably.

Toga Picta (outside) galloping with Etymology on Monday. Photo: Darryl Sherer

The James Cummings-trained three-year-old was paired with the older Etymology over 1200m, speeding up to run the last 400m in 24.05 seconds and please Godolphin's Melbourne assistant trainer David Charles.

"I was very happy with his work this morning," Charles said.

"His form is solid for a race like the Stutt Stakes and his performance on Friday will give us a good indication of where we head with him."

Toga Picta only weakened late on when finishing 12th behind Royal Symphony last time out in the Exford Plate at Flemington over 1400m and featured in the stewards report having to be eased to avoid interference in the home straight

The son of Group I winners Lonhro and Purple will be fitted with winkers for the first time on Friday to sharpen his focus and Charles is anticipating an improved performance.

"Colts like him have to perform at this level if they are going to progress on to better races," Charles said.

"We'd be hoping he can how he's good enough for a race like the Caulfield Guineas but we'll find out Friday - he should run super I think."

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