Addeyyb and Verry Elleegant will take a ton of beating, but challengers Collette and Master Of Wine are among the other horses who will relish a wet Rosehill track.

Drought breaker?

Avilius hasn’t won a race since September 21, 2019, but will start favourite in Saturday’s George Ryder Stakes.

The Godolphin champion has never missed the placings at Rosehill, boasting three wins and five seconds at the track, and is two from two on a heavy surface.

Stablemate Cascadian, Blamey Stakes winner Star Of The Seas, group 1-winning mare Funstar, and John Thompson’s Dreamforce – who won the race last year – are among the challengers for the 1500-metre test.

On the mend

Rostropovich will complete his return from a devastating injury in the 2019 Melbourne Cup when he runs in Saturday’s Golden Mile at Bendigo.

After a long lay off following a pelvic injury in the 3200-metre classic, the six-year-old son of Frankel will resume over 1600 metres, with no expectations from the Lindsay Park camp but to get to the line injury free.

The listed Bendigo Guineas for three-year-olds is the other highlight race on Victoria’s leading card.

Paying tribute

Mackinnon Stakes winner Alcopop has passed away.

The 16-year-old, who provided Adelaide trainer Jake Stephens with the ride of his life, finished second in a Caulfield Stakes to Cox Plate winner Ocean Park and second in a Caulfield Cup to Dunaden before winning the 2012 Mackinnon Stakes.

His final career start was in the group 1 Hong Kong Cup where he ran third. He finished his career with nearly $2 million in winnings.