Racing: Khan's shaping up for BMW

Four-year-old stallions are not easy to knock into shape.

Especially when the name is Mongolian Khan, a lump of a horse, who had a fairly serious issue when turned out late as a 3-year-old.

The couple of runs the Horse Of The Year has had this preparation have tightened the big body and fitted him up for the race that will finally suit - Saturday's 2400m A$1.5 million BMW Stakes at Rosehill.

Mongolian Khan is a $6 chance behind favourite Preferment at $3.50 and Our Ivanhowe on $4.20.

"He's improving all the time," says co-trainer Murray Baker. "I'm happy with him going into this race."

Preferment is in great shape for Chris Waller after winning the Australian Cup on protest at Flemington in Melbourne.

Favouritism for the Australian Oaks will be decided by Saturday's A$500,000 Vinery Stud Stakes over 2000 metres at Rosehill in Sydney.

Two flashy New Zealand fillies in Capella and Valley Girl are right in the market on $11 behind the joint $3.80 favourites Jameka and former New Zealand filly Risque.

The issue with Valley Girl and Capella is both are coming out of a tough 2400m in the Derby at Ellerslie a few weeks ago when they finished right alongside the placegetters.

That may not be an obstacle and, in fact, their residual fitness may stand by their chances.

But both are likely to be better for the 2400m of the upcoming Australian Oaks.

Opie Bosson rides Capella and Hong Kong-based Australian jockey Brett Prebble has been engaged for Valley Girl.

This looks a fascinating contest.