Saluter could be a cut above: Heathcote

Wednesday 13 August 2014, 12:52pm

Comeback galloper Saluter's continuing good form could become even better if trainer Robert Heathcote has his way.

Heathcote is keen to geld Saluter, an acceptor in the Stanley River Thoroughbreds Handicap (1400m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Saluter was a top-class three-year-old when trained by Jason McLachlan and has won almost $900,000, mainly through his victory in the 2013 Magic Millions Guineas.

However, Saluter has had a series of problems and was transferred to Heathcote when McLachlan had a break from racing last year.

"His knees were so bad a few vets told me we would be lucky to get him back to the races at all. And when we did get him back he had lost all confidence," Heathcote said.

"That is why his first couple of runs this campaign were ordinary. But he has got his confidence back and he is starting to really race well."

Saluter, who is owned by a Slade Bloodstock syndicate, has run second at his past three starts and Heathcote is confident a win is just around the corner.

Heathcote said it was amazing to think Saluter was still an entire.

"I know he is nicely bred being by Commands out of a Show A Heart mare but you have to be honest and consider whether he would be a commercial sire later on," Heathcote said.

"He is only five (years old) and a lot of horses when they are gelded a bit later in their careers really improve lengths.

"If he continues to race well I will have a talk to the owners about gelding him at the end of this preparation. I think he would think come back a very good horse."

Saluter has drawn the outside barrier in a field of 10 on Saturday but Heathcote does not see that as a problem.

"You only have to look at this year's Stradbroke Handicap to see horses can win from wide barriers at the Eagle Farm 1400 metres," he said.

"He goes forward and can either lead from there or get a sit just off the pace."

Apprentice Bridget Grylls will retain the mount on Saluter after riding him at his past two starts.

– AAP

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