Trainer Gerald Ryan is confident of success in this weekend’s Listed Civic Stakes (1350m) at Rosehill Gardens, saddling two chances in Oakfield Commands and outsider Capital Commander who have each drawn favourable barriers.

Beginning his racing career under the guidance of trainer Darren Smith, Oakfield Commands secured and impressive victory in the Winter Dash (1200m) last time out; figuring as both his first performance under the care of Ryan and first race win in more than a year.

Training well in the weeks leading up to the Winter Dash, Ryan revealed he has always been confident in first-up success and is expecting a similarly polished performance in the Civic Stakes.

“He appears to have trained on really well and he is thriving,” Ryan told TVN.

“I’ve only had him a couple of weeks but his first run was very pleasing

“I’m still learning about him but he certainly hasn’t gone backwards.

“I was expecting him to win first up; he worked really good on the Tuesday morning and he proved us right.”

Unable to match the late pace and sixth in the Instagram @ ATC Races Maiden (1200m) first-up on June 21^st, Ryan confirmed Capital Commander will be retired into a breeding career if she fails to perform to a high standard in the Civic Stakes.

“She has got to improve off her first-up run,” Ryan said.

“She needs to show something or she can go and be a mother without having another run.

“The plan was only to have two more runs.

“There is the Winter Stakes in a fortnight and then go to stud, but we might just send her to the barn early if she doesn’t run well.”

Allocated the ideal barrier 4, Oakfield Commands is currently offered at generous odds of $8.50 for success in the 2014 Civic Stakes, while Capital Commander (barrier 2) if offered little chance of returning to the winner’s circle at long odds of $51 with leading online bookie Ladbrokes.com.au.

Ladbrokes.com.au is currently offering the best odds on all races at Rosehill Gardens this weekend, including the Civic Stakes!