Promising galloper Kelvedon Road returns

One of Canberra’s most promising gallopers will return to racing this Friday. Kelvedon Road, a brilliant winner of the Casino Canberra Canberra Guineas Preview (1400m) back in February will line up for the first time as a four-year-old in the TAB Federal (1200m).

Trainer Todd Smart has had to be patient with Kelvedon Road, who failed to gain a start in last Saturday’s TAB Highway (1300m) after being listed as sixth emergency.

“We had the Highway in mind but this was always our back-up if he missed out.” Smart said.

“It has probably worked out for the best because it’ll be two weeks between this run and a nice trial at Wagga where he was really strong through the line.”

The son of Star Witness was a winner first-up last preparation before a devastating turn-of-foot saw him beat home the subsequent Stakes placegetter, Jalmari, in the Canberra Guineas Preview.

“He goes well fresh and I really think we’ve ironed out a few of the horse’s issues.” Trainer Todd Smart said.

“While it’s a strong race, I think he’s going to get to a higher level than this.”

“He’s going to improve from the run but class takes you a fair way.”

Kelvedon Road has built a nice resume in his short career with three wins and three minor placings from his ten career starts.

He won’t have it all his own way on Friday however, with reigning New Zealand Bloodstock Horse of the Year Easy Rosie entered in the contest. Anthony Warren’s Easy Rosie boasts three wins and third placing from her four starts at Thoroughbred Park.

The TAB Federal is Race Three on Friday’s program and is due to jump at 1:41pm.

Pictured: Billy Owen has a big grin on his face as he pilots Kelvedon Road to a massive win in the 2022 Casino Canberra Canberra Guineas Preview (1400m)