Trainer Ed Walker is keeping multiple options open for Alfred Wallace, the two-year-old colt, ahead of a busy week of potential Group 1 races in England and France. The Lambourn-based trainer has entered the Dubawi colt, out of the Classic-winning mare Snow Lantern, in both the Criterium International at Saint-Cloud on October 25 and the William Hill Futurity Trophy Stakes at Doncaster a day earlier, on October 24.

Alfred Wallace, who has shown resilience and competitive spirit, secured victory in the Group 3 Solario Stakes over 1,400 meters at Sandown on August 29. However, he was unable to make an impact in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at ParisLongchamp on October 4, where he also raced over 1,400 meters.

With Alfred Wallace scheduled to be offered at Newmarket’s Tattersalls Horses In Training Sale next week, Walker is focused on enhancing the colt’s racing credentials, particularly to build a stronger profile for the dam. “I’ve left him in at Saint-Cloud today,” Walker said. “I think we’ll just be tracking declarations and seeing what looks best.”

Walker described his approach to training Alfred Wallace akin to how one might prepare a filly, emphasizing the colt’s robustness and consistency. “He’s a homebred of Rockliffe Stud and we’re just trying to build a profile for the dam really,” he explained. “He goes to the horses in training sale next week but he’s in really good order. He’s such a tough and robust horse.”

Uncertainty remains regarding the racing conditions. While Alfred Wallace is entered in both the French and British contests, Walker noted potential concerns about ground conditions, especially in France. “Whether he really wants bad ground, I’m not entirely sure. We’re not definite to go anywhere but it can cut up in France,” he said, reflecting on the possibility of heavy going affecting the colt’s performance.

As declarations for both Group 1 races approach, the decision on which race Alfred Wallace will contest remains fluid, with Walker weighing the options to maximize the colt’s prospects before heading to the sales ring.