Racing: Colt rated in Spring Stakes

Photo / Thinkstock

Trainer Paul Messara is certain Panzer Division has more to offer than being reduced to a mere support role in the Spring Champion Stakes.

In a group one finale to the Sydney spring at Randwick today, Flight Stakes winner First Seal and the unbeaten Godolphin colt Sweynesse absorb most of the market percentage in the A$400,000 race.

Messara insists there is room for Panzer Division to be rated a legitimate chance to upset the two favourites.

As much as he is confused by the lack of buzz around Panzer Division, he is just as positive the colt can figure in the finish, despite drawing the outside of the nine runners.

"I think he is a bit of a forgotten horse when you look at the form in this field ... and I can't see any reason for it," Messara said.

A $6 chance, Panzer Division will bring weight-for-age form into the Spring Champion after ending up midfield behind Cox Plate favourite Sacred Falls and Epsom Hcp runner-up Royal Descent in the George Main Stakes.

"I thought it was a very solid run and I think he is going to improve a lot," Messara said.

First Seal has been the best-backed runner on the strength of trainer John Thompson's decision to give the filly her chance against the colts and geldings a week after a group one win against her own kind in the Flight.

She is a $1.85 favourite ahead of Sweynesse ($3.50).

- AAP