Admiral will be at the top of his game when he attempts to prove himself over a middle distance at Wanganui on today.
The Align gelding was unplaced at his only previous attempt beyond a mile in the Listed Jakkalberry Classic (1950m), but an evident lack of pace in the Balance Accountants Open 2040m at Wanganui today has buoyed connections.
"The owner's keen and he didn't think there would be too much speed," trainer Stephen Ralph said. "I think he can run 2000m, as long as he doesn't have to work too hard early."
Last season's Listed Karaka Classic (1600m) winner heads south in good form, having finished fourth two runs back in the group two Easter Handicap (1600m) and then won for the sixth time in his career at Rotorua.
"He could have won two or three more with luck," Ralph said. "He's a pretty decent horse."