Moher and Federal planning a Festival celebration

The track-and-distance specialist Moher and the well-credentialed Federal make up a formidable Godolphin force in the G3 Festival Stakes at Rosehill on Saturday, 2 December.

For Moher (Josh Parr), the race is a substitute for last Sunday’s Listed Kilmore Cup that was abandoned after a storm hit the Victorian track.

But trainer James Cummings said the change of plans shouldn’t be an issue for the son of Lonhro.

“He was due to run at Kilmore last Sunday but we had to turn around and bring him home, but this race is a good alternative,” Cummings said.

“He returns to Sydney after winning at Flemington during Cup week and he’s trained on strongly.”

That victory signaled a return to form for Moher who has three wins at Rosehill over the 1,500m of Saturday’s race to his credit.

In his Flemington win he defeated the in-form pair Duke Of Brunswick and Ruettiger and looks well-placed here with 3kg above the limit.

Stable companion Federal (Tye Angland) has made steady improvement at his two runs this time in, the latest when third at Rosehill behind Cabeza De Vaca, who meets on better weight terms here.

“He’s building up nicely and at his two runs this time in he’s been trying hard,” Cummings said.

“He’s also crept up in the ratings, but I still think he’s got a good chance.

“He’s trained nicely and is going to find the 1500m suitable.”

On paper, Federal has good form to recommend him having won at Listed level and been placed a further nine times in Stakes races.

As well as Cabeza De Vaca, the Godolphin pair will be confronted by the G1 winner Japonisme and the dual Stakes winner Red Excitement.