Cordero stays true to new assignment

Cordero (right) has opened up his options with his first win over 2400 metres at Randwick.

Cordero has continued his transition to becoming a genuine stayer with an assured win over a distance at Randwick.

The four-year-old has been earmarked for longer distances this preparation by Hawkes Racing and has broken through another barrier with his 2400m-victory on Tuesday.

Brenton Avdulla bided his time before the $3.20 favourite pulled clear late to hit the line a half-length clear of San Francisco ($5.50).

Richard Of Yorke ($7.50) improved significantly in the straight to nab third, 1-1/4 lengths further back.

Cordero won over 1900m at his previous start at Canterbury on December 15 and co-trainer Michael Hawkes was pleased again after the latest phase of his transformation.

“In his last prep he was more a 1400 (metres) to a miler. This time we’ve got a very nice stayer in the making,” Hawkes said.

Banner error, could not find casino id "william-hill-sport"

“His win at Canterbury was very good. He had a real good turn of foot and today the game plan was to have him relaxed in the comfort zone.

“Brenton rode him exactly how we wanted him to. We said keep him balanced and have one last crack.

“The horse is still learning but when he got his head in front he knuckled down to the task.”

Hawkes said there were no specific plans for Cordero who now has four wins from 10 starts.

“It was about whether he got 2400 or not so he’s done a good job,” he said.

“Now he’s run 24 it just opens up a lot more doors.”