Heavy conditions no problem for Vinland

Trainer Tony McEvoy doubts Vinland will be a major spring player despite recording a convincing victory at Flemington.

McEvoy said the heavy track conditions in Saturday’s VRC Member Emma Duffy Handicap had suited Vinland, but the first sign of a firm track will see the gelding head to the paddock.

Perfectly handled by Luke Currie, Vinland ($5) scored a half-length victory from Romancer ($5) with Super Titus ($11) 1-3/4 lengths away third.

McEvoy said Vinland was a talented galloper which needed everything to fall his way.

“He works like a Group horse at home, so it is in there, and I’m hopeful that we will get to see it,” McEvoy said.

“He has won a stakes race and this was a strong race today as there was a couple of nice horses in form and he really put them away.”

After travelling to Brisbane for a winter campaign, McEvoy expects Vinland to be in the paddock when the bigger Group One handicaps are conducted later in the spring.

McEvoy said Vinland could return to Flemington in two weeks time for another 1400m race before progressing to a slight step up in trip.

“I might sneak him back to Adelaide if the conditions are suitable for the Balaklava Cup, but I doubt he’ll be a major player here in the spring,” McEvoy said.