GROUP 1 DAY ON SATURDAY

Runners in two states for us on Saturday with Mr Marathon Man at Randwick and The Delphi and Tofane at Caulfield.

The lure of a soft surface and racing right-handed has enticed Mike Moroney to send Mr Marathon Man (pictured) north to tackle the George Main Stakes (Gr 1) over 1600m.

“He’s settled in well there and had a look about,” Moroney said. “I think he’s probably in the best order we’ve had him in - his work here on Tuesday was terrific going right-handed which he seems to appreciate.

“He gets the ground he’s been looking for so despite being in a quality race he has some things in his favour.

“Mark Zahra rides and the barrier seven suits so while it is a tough test for sure his best form will put him in the finish I think.”

Last start winner Tofane also takes a step up in class in the How Now Stakes (Gr 3) over 1200m where she has drawn barrier one.

“It’s a strong race without doubt and I think luck in running will play a big part,” Moroney said.

“We’re very happy with her and she’s done well from the last start win at Moonee Valley, her work has been good and she’s eating well.

“From the draw we’ll try and track Pippie if we can and then see if she measure up - if she reproduces her form from the Group race in Adelaide then I feel she should be competitive.”

The Delphi starts the day for us in the first race, the Benchmark 78 Handicap over 1800m with Michael Poy reducing his weight to 54.5kg.

The Delphi pleased Moroney first-up when finishing sixth at Sandown over 1600m on a heavy track.

“It’s only a small field but an even one and the ideal place for him to go second-up,” Moroney said.

“A little concern over the pace, or lack of it, especially from the inside barrier.

“His work has been good and this is the right race to get him ready for a step up in distance and I’m expecting him to run well.”