Another long-distance feature is within trainer Nigel Blackiston's sights with imported galloper Ominous.

Blackiston has hit three staying targets in 2014 with Outback Joe winning the Bagot Handicap (2800m) and Adelaide Cup (3200m) while Ominous claimed the Port Adelaide Cup over 2500m last time out.

Saturday's Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes, run over the Melbourne Cup distance of 3200m, at Flemington is the next aim for the stable.

Blackiston's racing manager Darryl Sherer sourced the five-year-old son of Oasis Dream in France last year after Ominous raced in the care of Francois Rohaut.

Ominous went winless in his four spring starts for Blackiston but the Flemington trainer quickly rectified the stayer's ways, which has produced wins at his past two starts in South Australia.

"He showed a bit of promise but his mind was on other things and he also took some time to acclimatise, which was always expected," Blackiston said.

"We gelded him, gave him a nice break and he's come back a different horse."

Blackiston said the Group Two Brisbane Cup (2400m) had entered his mind but dropping back 800 metres would pose too much of a challenge for Ominous.

Ominous is one of 17 nominations for the Andrew Ramsden Stakes.

Unchain My Heart will attempt back-to-back wins in the race for trainer David Hayes while last year's runner-up Wells will attempt to reverse the 2013 result.

Saab Hasan has entered Shoreham while the 2012 South Australian Derby winner Zabeelionaire is also among the nominations but is more likely to head to Sydney for the McKell Cup.

Caulfield trainer Peter Moody has nominated import Ancient King and Group Two winner Vatuvei for the $150,000 contest.