Matt Dunn set to target Q22 and Melbourne Cup with import Sea King

Sea King has returned from a break and trainer Matt Dunn believes the import will be a better horse after being given time to acclimatise to his new surroundings.

Sea King will be aimed at the Q22 and Melbourne Cup this year. Picture: Brett Holburt/Racing Photos via Getty Images

Trainer Matt Dunn has revealed his grand plans for stakes-winning international Sea King which has returned to work following a brief freshen up.

Dunn picked up the European stayer off English-based trainer Harry Eustace and he’s eager to see the gelding in action, with the Melbourne Cup still on his radar after finishing 14th in 2024.

Like many imports that head to Australian shores, Dunn believes Sea King will be a different horse with a bit of time and acclimatisation.

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“He’s just recently returned to work and he’s absolutely flying at the moment,” Dunn said.

“For now we’d certainly look at the Q22 as an option for him in the winter.

“However, the ultimate goal for him is to have another crack at the Melbourne Cup, he’s a genuine two-miler.”

Owned by syndication powerhouse OTI Racing, Dunn disclosed his admiration and close relationship with the business, having ten of their horses in his stable.

“The connection we have with OTI has been huge for us,” Dunn said.

“In my opinion they buy the best horses from Europe and I’ve been lucky to train for them for some time now.”

Continuing with the OTI theme, the Murwillumbah-based trainer has nine-year-old Stuck With You going around in the Gold Coast Mayor’s Vase on Friday night.

With 11 career wins under his belt, Dunn said he was a solid chance.

“He’s been brilliant for us and he should run the trip out,” he said.

“(The 2050m) is the perfect distance for him.”

Joining the Kiwi-bred gelding will be six-year-old Derry Grove, which goes around in the Listed Goldmarket with Martin Harley set to take the ride.

The son of Star Turn is Dunn’s pick of the yard on Friday, however this week’s test is merely a hit-and-run mission to lead him in good stead for the winter.

“He’s got a brilliant turn of foot and needs an aggressive ride and someone with good hands,” Dunn said.

“He’s at his peak when he’s fresh.

“His bets runs are first, second, third or fourth up and getting him to 1200m is the ultimate aim.

“I guess the Doomben 10,000 could be a target.”

Originally published as Matt Dunn set to target Q22 and Melbourne Cup with import Sea King