Waterclock’s performance at Beverley on Thursday will go a long way to determining his confirmation for the Betfred Cesarewitch.
That’s the view of North Yorkshire trainer Jedd O’Keeffe, who is sweet on another assault on the big Newmarket handicap in October.
Waterclock finished second in the Cesarewitch in 2013, when trained by Roger Charlton, but he could not match that effort in last season’s renewal.
The six-year-old has, however, recently been enlightened by the application of a visor, with O’Keeffe expecting a big show in the £10,000 Hull Trains Handicap (4.05) on the Westwood.
“We are still thinking about the Cesarewitch, but it will depend on how he gets on in his next few Flat starts,” said the Middleham handler.
“I guess he’d have to first win at Beverley on Thursday and then we’d take it from there.
“If all went well, the Cesarewitch Trial would be a possible next stop and then the Cesarewitch itself.
“He’s also got the option over going over hurdles with the headgear on, so hopefully we’ll have a lot of fun with him this year.”
Waterclock showed lots of spirit over course and distance on July 14 when he gamely accounted for Aldreth by a neck under Graham Lee, who is likely to be on board at Beverley on Thursday.
Things did not go to plan at York on his next start as he finished seventh of nine runners in an extended two-mile handicap, but connections felt there were excuses on the Knavesmire.
O’Keeffe said: “He came out of York grand. We had hoped he’d run a bit better, but the race was not run to suit and that didn’t help at all.
“He always seems to have a slight advantage at Beverley, as he showed when he won so well last month.
“I wouldn’t worry about his handicap mark, I’d be more concerned about the unexposed three-year-olds who might line up at Beverley.
“Beverley is a very good track and it clearly suits his running style.”
A strong list of confirmations for the Hull Trains Handicap, which could feature last-time-out scorers Katie Gale, Jolie Blonde, Sea Of Heaven, Medina Sidonia and Sleep Easy, will ensure there is no hangover a day after Journal Ladies’ Day at Beverley on Wednesday.
The seven-race card on Thursday is due to begin at 2pm, with the current going good to firm – with watering an option if required.

ENDS