Paul Messara is hoping Chateau Fort will return to the winners circle in this Saturday’s Grand Prix Stakes in Brisbane.

The three-year-old colt finished third in the Rough Habit Plate last start, putting an end to a brilliant preparation that saw him win all of his first three starts.

Messara believes that Chateau Fort would have won the race had he not jumped from barrier nine.

“He was beaten by the barrier,” Messara said.

“Having to make a mid-race move probably took a bit away from his finish.

“He still hit the line well but wasn’t able to sprint like he normally can.”

The trainer said that while the final result was disappointing, he was impressed with Chateau Fort’s effort.

“He had no cover throughout so it wasn’t a pleasing result but it was a good effort,” he said.

Chateau Fort will now compete in the $250,000 Grand Prix Stakes this weekend in the hope of winning his fourth race in just six starts.

The young colt has been allocated barrier nine once again for the race, but with a full field of 16 the trainer is hoping Chateau Fort can find a spot closer to the rail.

“Hopefully this weekend we can slot in and put him to sleep so he can finish off,” Messara said.

Chateau Fort will be looking for a good run in preparation for the Group 1 Queensland Derby on June 11.