Cosmic Crusader will back up from his Caulfield Cup fourth placing in the Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) at Flemington this Saturday.
The former WA-based gelding was gallant in the cup, and his recovery has satisfied connections, giving them the confidence that he will perform highly off just a seven-day turnaround.
The six-year-old has raced three times off such a short break and has almost won each time, landing Belmont’s TABtouch Stakes (1650m) by eight and a half lengths at his first attempt in September last year.
Two months later, he easily saluted in the Carbine Club (1400m) and then three weeks following that, he went within a neck of claiming the Gold Rush (1400m) when second to Rey Magnerio, both at Ascot.
However, after a demanding Group 1 over 2400m, this will be his greatest test of fortitude if he is able to successfully perform at his best this weekend.
Meanwhile, fellow unconfirmed Cox Plate starter Autumn Boy will remain in Sydney and instead contest the Golden Eagle (1500m).