Appleby Sets Sights On Sydney Cup

By Brad Gray

Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby, who divides his time between Marmoom stables in Dubai and Moulton Paddocks in Newmarket, has confirmed that he’ll be represented at The Championships for the first time.

Penglai Pavilion and Polarisation will both be targeted at the $2m Group One Sydney Cup (3200m) and given the success Appleby had over the spring with Qewy, Oceanographer, Francis Of Assisi and Scottish, he has got a very good understanding of the type of horse he needs for Australian conditions.

"I am excited about sending our first runners to Sydney," said Appleby.

"We had a great carnival in Melbourne and if we could have even half as good a time in Sydney, I would be delighted.

"Penglai Pavilion finished fifth in Treve's (2013) Arc at Longchamp and also proved himself very useful over hurdles.

"He's a very good stayer, who is in top form. He will be suited by the Sydney Cup.

"Polarisation is also a decent stayer, who raced over jumps. He, too, will like this type of race."

Recent Dubai winner Gold Trail will join Penglai Pavilion and Polarisation in quarantine at Canterbury, but is aiming up at the Mornington Cup.

"All three horses will additionally be nominated for the Chairman's Quality at Randwick, but this is only as a precaution," said Appleby.

"We have no intention of running in the Chairman's. It is only in case one of them has a setback."