Sea Shepherd was in unchartered waters at the start of the season, having a spate of subpar unplaced runs, and trainer Sabin Kirkland is hoping to get his gelding back on course this weekend.

The Southland gelding strung together three wins last year before Kirkland went on a European trip and transferred Sea Shepherd to the care of Michael and Matthew Pitman.

He won first-up for the Riccarton trainers at Ashburton before finishing last in both the Oamaru Cup (1600m) and Gr.3 Winter Cup (1600m). He returned south to Kirklands care and continued to put in sub-par showings in his following two starts prior to heading to the spelling paddock.

Kirkland has been pleased with the way the son of Zacinto has returned and is expecting a bold showing first-up from the seven-win gelding in Saturday’s The AP Restaurant & Bar Aparima Handicap (1200m).

“He has had a good spell and he has come up really well, we are very happy with him,” Kirkland said.

“He is looking a picture and has been working super. He has a very good first-up record, so we are looking forward to Saturday.”

Kirkland doesn’t have any set autumn plans as yet for Sea Shepherd but said a return to Riccarton would be a likely option.

“We will just get through Saturday, but I would love to have a crack at the ($350,000) Southern Alps (Challenge),” Kirkland said. “There are also some nice races coming up at Riccarton for him.”