The stable's promising stayer Tochi struggled in a run on the Kensington track, fading down the straight to finish eighth in an 1800 metre benchmark 74.

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The four-year-old was worked up in the mounting yard and Luke Price conceded she didn't handle the heavy track.

"I was a little disappointed," Price said. "She got real stirred up pre-race, which she often does, but she had run herself into the ground before she even jumped.

"She never looked comfortable on that track, the Kensington track can be a different wet track to others. I'll put it down to second up over 1800, she never handled the heavy track. I won't panic yet.

"We'll make sure she's okay over the next few weeks, then maybe look at Canterbury. We're in no rush, we'll make sure she's 100%."

The pair won't have to wait long to make amends for the showing, with four runners listed for Saturday's meeting on the course proper.

Twirling Moss will kick off the day for the Prices in the fifth, a 1000m handicap.

First up with a light weight and across the perfect distance, Luke is confident the gelding will perform, should the track improve between now and Saturday.

"I love the way he races first up. The track's the biggest concern, if it stays heavy, he'll probably come out, if it's soft, he'll go around.

"It's a lovely race for him, no weight, he was only beaten by a head in a similar race up there last prep. He's primed, we've targeted these races for him over winter, so just hoping we get the right track."

Curata Princess will follow in a 2400m handicap before Cuban Royale and Noble Joey round out the day for the Prices in a 1300m benchmark 78 handicap.

Cuban Royale has come close to saluting in Sydney this campaign and Price is optimistic he will breakthrough on Saturday.

"Cuban Royale is our best chance, a soft barrier, well weighted with Brock's claim. He had no joy last start, he was four deep the whole way and only beaten two lengths, it was a big effort.

"With three weeks between runs, he's more than pleased us. Hopefully the track plays okay on Saturday, we have a bit warmer weather and it dries out a bit."

Meanwhile, veteran mare Leami Astray has been retired, with the seven-year-old transitioning to the next phase of her life.

"She's on her way to have a date with Capitalist," Price said. "We'll be breeding foals out of her with stallions from Newgate, which is exciting.

"She's done a good job for us and the time was right to retire."