Southend's spring racing path to be determined by early performances

Trainer Sterling Alexiou is assessing the future racing path for the three-year-old colt Southend based on his upcoming early-season performances. The stakes-winning horse is scheduled to return in the Group 3 Up And Coming Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill this Saturday.

Due to an awkward draw in barrier nine of 11, Alexiou plans to have the colt ridden conservatively. The team is currently determining Southend's optimal racing distance, as his previous run in the Group 1 Champagne Stakes provided limited data regarding his ability over a mile.

Following the Rosehill race and a planned appearance in the Ming Dynasty Quality, connections will decide whether to target the Golden Rose, Caulfield Guineas, Dulcify Stakes, or Spring Champion Stakes.