The seven-year-old gelding has drawn barrier two for the top race at the popular picnic meeting on the back of a solid preparation.

“They’ll have to beat us,” Sutherland said.

“It will be a good, solid field and it’s always a tough race to win.

“He’s never had a long spell and he’s beefed up a bit, but I’ve actually rated him above where he was last year.”

Reece Goodwin has retained his ride on the Cup champion, which was a straightforward decision for Sutherland.

“Reece knows him and he’s been riding well.”