Spring Carnival prospects resume at Flemington

As we edge closer to Melbourne's famous Spring Carnival, staff at Ballymore are getting busier and busier and we have some very nice types racing this weekend.

Two of those - Murcielaga and Shenzhou Steeds - head to Flemington on Saturday.

Kicking off his campaign in the $220,000 Gr.2 Danehill Stakes, Murcielaga is having his first start since an impressive debut victory in an Inglis Bonus race during the Warrnambool May carnival.

Always well regarded, the son of Testa Rossa spelled well and we are excited about his spring prospects.

"We went into the winter thinking he was one of our best three-year-old chances," Michael Moroney said, "and he has done nothing to change our mind."

"We are throwing him into the deep-end but he has always shown above average ability."

To be ridden by Nick Hall who was also aboard when Murcielaga won at debut by three lengths, the good looking colt is bred to get better with maturity.

A $220,000 Easter yearling, Murcielaga is out of the stakes placed multiple city winning Zabeel mare Zacushla who hit her best form at four.

Shenzhou Steeds is another horse being tested in strong class - the last start runaway Caloudra Cup winner taking on weight-for-age company in the $300,000 Gr.2 Makybe Diva Stakes.

"It will be interesting to see how he measures up," Moroney said, adding that "a bit more rain about would help him."

A seven times winner from 15 starts, the talented five-year-old is nominated for all the big Spring features and he is suited over the 1600m first up.

"He still has a bit of residual fitness from his Queensland campaign," said Moroney.

Eddie Wilkinson, who formed a very good relationship with Shenzhou Steeds in Queensland takes the ride - the pair to jump from barrier 9.