Buffering has recovered from a taxing Manikato Stakes run and at this stage is on track for the Group 1 Darley Classic.
The Robert Heathcote-trained gelding got caught up in the severe interference caused by Lankan Rupee and Temple Of Boom during the early stages of the Manikato Stakes.
He was checked severely however recovered well for a half length seventh behind Lankan Rupee.
“Damian made the comment after the race that it was the best run of his career,” Heathcote said.
“Lankan Rupee wasn’t totally clear of us and we suffered interference. It cost Buffering his rhythm. He is very much a horse who once he gets to a high cruising speed with a lovely rhythm, he can maintain it for a long way and he couldn’t do that. He was very brave.”
The Mossman gelding pulled up sore post race and there were doubts on his likelihood of contesting the Group 1 Darley Classic at Flemington on November 8.
“Fortunately he gave us the best feeling at home since Friday night,” Heathcote told Sky Sports Radio.
“He was pretty sore on Saturday and Sunday.
“We had the saddle on him for the first time since then this morning. He came off the track feeling okay.
“He is still a little bit tight and not as totally free as we would like but we are making good progress. The last 24 hours have been great. I’m confident now we will be going to the Darley Stakes now on Saturday week.
“His residual fitness is such that he’s not going to do much in terms of work between the Manikato and the Darley Classic. I’m hoping I can do a little bit with him on the Saturday, a nice little workout on the Thursday and then away we go.”
A winner of the 2013 VRC Sprint, Buffering is quoted at $13 with TAB Sportsbet Fixed Odds to defend his title.
Chautauqua is the $2.80 favourite for the 1200m feature.