A first-time defeat has not deterred connections of Crocetti (NZ) (Zacinto) from a potential Melbourne raid this autumn, with next month’s Gr.1 Australian Guineas still a possible target.
Crocetti won his first seven races before narrowly falling short in the Gr.1 BCD Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa on Saturday behind Bonny Lass (NZ) (Super Easy), but co-trainer Danny Walker said on Sunday that a decision remained on whether he will chase the Group One classic at Flemington.
“He is a chance, but we are going to make a decision later in the week,” Walker said.
“We haven’t had an in-depth look, but we are just waiting to see how he comes through the race. He seems good so far, but well give him a few days and work out what we are going to do.”
The Australian Guineas was won last year by star filly Legarto.
Walker said he felt Saturday’s run was a taxing one for Crocetti as he chased from a long way out, so he was keen to give the horse a few days before confirming his plans.
“He had to really push hard yesterday, which he did,” Walker said. “He was game and we were happy. We just want to make a decision that’s in the best interest of the horse.
“We’ll look at his long-term future. I think he’s a nice 1400 metres to a mile horse, who may get further as he gets older and stronger.”
Australian bookmakers have kept Crocetti safe for the March 3 classic, marking him the second favourite behind the Ciaron Maher-trained colt King Colorado.
