Trainer Ciaron Maher has been holding off on applying blinkers to Jimmysstar’s race day equipment until the right moment.

That opportune moment has finally presented itself, with Jimmysstar slated to compete in blinkers for the first time in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield this Sunday.

Jimmysstar completed a trial in the headgear on September 14 and was observed wearing blinkers during a Tuesday morning gallop at Caulfield with race jockey Ethan Brown in the saddle.

“I’ve thought about it for a while,” Maher stated.

“His trackwork isn’t the most indicative, but he does like to settle into a trial. It was difficult to ascertain the true reason for his last start performance, whether it was Angel Capital leaning on him or another factor, but I was certainly very pleased with him leading into that race, and I’m definitely happy with him heading into this one. I think they can only assist him, but if he can get the right run, that will be more significant, especially if he can get to the outside and unleash his known capabilities.”

Jimmysstar’s resumption was marked by what many considered a below-par performance in the Group 1 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on August 29, finishing ninth behind Beiwacht.

Maher reported that Jimmysstar has done well since that run and has not relinquished hope that the gelding could be a contender for The Everest at Randwick next month.

Jimmysstar finished third in last year’s renewal of The Everest, behind Ka Ying Rising.

“The primary consideration is the horse’s condition, and he has improved from his first-up run,” Maher explained. “He performed very well in The Everest last year, and we’ll certainly be keen to consider that race again, provided he is in the right form. He achieved a tough run last year and was very strong, so hopefully, he runs back to that form, and we can have those discussions.”

Jimmysstar has drawn barrier eight in the 13-horse field for Sunday’s event.

The rail is out to the 13-metre mark on Sunday, which is not ideal for a Group 1 contest.

“To have the rail out this far is probably not what everyone wants, especially with Jimmy,” Maher commented. “But horses were able to make ground on Saturday, and if they can continue to do so, it should not be a concern. Everyone is hoping for a fair track, I guess.”

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