Trainer Glenn Thornton has decided to take the easier of two options with Vibrant Rouge at Caulfield.

The mare was first emergency for the Group Three Victoria Handicap (1400m) on Saturday and had made the field following the scratching of Jimando.

But the Geelong-based Thornton has decided she will instead tackle the Noel Rundle Handicap (1400m), a race restricted to mares.

"If I had drawn better in the other race I would have run there," Thornton said.

"But because I've drawn a bit awkward I'll be chicken and run in what I think is the easier race.

"The Victoria Handicap doesn't look a bad race this year as it's not normally that strong."

Thornton said he was not too concerned about missing the Group Three contest as he has bigger plans in mind.

Vibrant Rouge campaigned in Tasmania during the summer carnival and was a last-start fourth behind Admiral and The Cleaner in the George Adams Stakes over 1600m on February 25.

It followed a Group Three victory at Launceston in mares company over 1400m on February 18.

Thornton has pinpointed the Group Two Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m) at Morphettville on May 2 as the mare's target.

"Saturday's not our grand final so I'm not that fussed missing the Victoria Handicap," he said.

"Our goal is Adelaide next month.

"She's come back from Tassie in good order and had a nice little trial here on Monday and ran really well, so it's all systems go."