James McDonald flew into Melbourne on Saturday night and the thought of a sunrise spin around Flemington aboard headline Hong Kong galloper Romantic Warrior saw him wake early even without the need of an alarm.
That excitement was vindicated when the gallop confirmed for him that despite having 'a few more lengths to improve' before the ultimate aim of the Group 1 WS Cox Plate (2040m) later this month, the five-year-old still has a few lengths on his rivals in the Group 1 TAB Turnbull Stakes (2000m) at Flemington on Saturday.
Three times has McDonald partnered with Romantic Warrior, each of which delivering victories at the highest level in Hong Kong with the latest the Group 1 Champions & Chapter Cup over 2400-metres at Sha Tin in May.
"He worked beautifully," McDonald said after the 1200-metre gallop with stablemate Romantic Charm.
"He got on the right leg, he was lovely and balanced, and he will improve immensely from today."
McDonald confirmed that the open spaces and long straight of Flemington would suit the Danny Shum-trained gelding.