Racing: Xcellent in frame for Mudgway

Co-trainer Andrew Scott says Xcellent's overall spring campaign remains fluid after an impressive gallop between races at Taupo races yesterday.

"There are a lot of options," said Scott after the class act galloped with stablemate Clean Sweep.

The pair ran 1200m in 1.15, the 800 in 48 and 600 in 35.

"That was what we wanted to see," said Scott.

Xcellent was scratched from the Foxbridge Plate on Saturday because of a heavy track.

"The surface this time was perfect," said Scott.

The Matamata trainer was delighted with the way Xcellent paraded.

"Clean Sweep was a bit fresh when she walked into the birdcage, but Xcellent was right where he needed to be. He was relaxed and just perfect.

"Given he hasn't had a race yet this campaign you might have expected him to be just a little bit toey."

Xcellent is aiming at running in the Mudgway Fair Tax Stakes at Hastings on Saturday week.

Co-owner Paul Moroney will walk the Hastings track on Tuesday to decide suitability for Xcellent.

"We are aiming at that race, but if things are not quite right, there are a lot of options."

Xcellent is currently at $20 with the TAB for this year's Melbourne Cup.