Kingston Passage, so impressive in three straight sprinting wins earlier in the year, is now back in training.

Brett Crawford (Liesl King

Brett Crawford said: “He has had a long break but is now in work once more although I don’t think he will start before November.”

The Western Winter four-year-old showed so much speed that he was able to burn off the opposition until his last outing in June when, starting hot favourite, he missed the kick and came in only fifth of eight behind 14-1 shot Prince Alfred. A subsequent veterinary examination showed him to be short on his left hind.

Crawford said: “He was OK afterwards and it wasn’t the reason why we decided he should have a rest.”

By Michael Clower