Cox Plate preparations: Chad Schofield and Matt Smith focus on upcoming races

Jockey Chad Schofield is targeting a second Cox Plate victory as he prepares to partner Ceolwulf in the $6 million race at Flemington. Schofield, who famously won the championship as a 19-year-old apprentice aboard Shamus Award in 2013, expressed that winning the event again in his early 30s would carry even greater significance. This pursuit follows his recent success in the $20 million Everest.

Meanwhile, trainer Matt Smith is adjusting plans for Idle Flyer following a disappointing campaign. After a poor performance in the group 1 Epsom Handicap, Smith has opted to drop the mare back to 1400m for the $2 million Invitation at Randwick. The goal is to regain form and potentially prepare for the group 1 Empire Rose at Flemington.