Trainer Robbie Griffiths feels much more confident this time around with the preparation Rey Magnerio has undergone ahead of his Group 1 race at Caulfield.
Rey Magnerio returns for a second attempt at the Oakleigh Plate (1100m) on Saturday, having finished ninth in the sprint event last year.
Griffiths explained that last year, Rey Magnerio was essentially still in his first preparation, whereas this time, the trainer has had more time to plan the gelding’s campaign.
“Two years ago, when he won at the Spring Carnival, it was a benchmark 80,” Griffiths said.
“He didn’t have enough points, and he would have been horribly disadvantaged to tuck him away for a crack at an Oakleigh Plate last year, so we had a crack at the summer series.”
“He won at Geelong, he won at Caulfield, and he ran his way in without a proper break, just a freshen, in basically his first racing campaign.”
“This time around it’s been different. We’ve had a chance to rest him up, target the spring with five runs, finish after the Meteorite (at Cranbourne), freshen and go again.”
“And you’re not constantly jumping in grades all the time.”
During the spring, Rey Magnerio raced in primarily Stakes company and began his latest campaign with a win in the Group 2 Rubiton Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on February 8.
“He was running at a high level in the spring, and he’s come back in the autumn ready for the big boys, whereas it was such a big thing to do early in his career last year,” Griffiths added.
“Last year we drew poorly, and it took its toll. This year, he’s a stronger horse, and we’ve drawn favorably in five, with strong horses around him.”
“We’re excited about going there. He came back with a great return and has galloped beautifully since, and from the draw, it looks like he’ll get a good opportunity.”
“That being the case, and knowing his fighting spirit, I think we’re in with a chance.”
Griffiths is also eyeing the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8 as the next big handicap sprint for Rey Magnerio.
The Newmarket Handicap marked Griffiths’ first Group 1 victory when The Quarterback won in 2016.
