Trainer Robert Heathcote has key runners in the feature races at Doomben on Saturday but it is three-year-old Pinch River who will command most interest.

Heathcote has made no secret of the fact Pinch River reminds him of his four-time Group One winner Buffering at the same age.

"I have never said Pinch River will be the next Buffering but he does remind me of the champ at the same stage in their careers," Heathcote said.

"Pinch River was a good two-year-old who won four races including the Listed Dalrello Stakes but he has to take the next step up now.

"Buffering took that step up and it will be interesting to see if Pinch River can do the same thing."

Buffering is sidelined with an injury and Heathcote will make a decision on his racing future in the coming months.

Pinch River has drawn barrier 18 in Saturday's Hopgoodganim Plate (1110m), his first start since he won an open two-year-old race at Ipswich on June 14.

Heathcote had hoped to set the horse for a race during the Magic Millions carnival in January but Pinch River succumbed to a hoof problem.

"It will be a real test (on Saturday) because there are some very good three-year-olds in the field," Heathcote said.

"We gave him some time off and it might have proved a blessing in disguise. It has given him that little bit extra time to mature."

First-up winner Hopfgarten has continued to please Heathcote and he will contest the Listed Tails Stakes on Saturday.

"I believe he will be a real chance in the Hollindale Cup and Doomben Cup at weight-for-age this winter," Heathcote said.

"He has 58 kilograms on Saturday but he does have Damian Browne so that is a big plus."

Heathcote is also looking for a bold run from veteran Excellantes in the Listed Chief De Beers Handicap.

"Six of his 11 wins have been at Doomben and he has a nice draw," Heathcote said.

"He is honest and we will keep him to similar races in the winter."