Trainer Michael Trotter is feeling confident heading into Saturday’s Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield, with top jockey Blake Shinn retaining the ride on talented mare Apache Song.

Shinn, who currently leads the Melbourne Jockeys’ Premiership by seven wins, will partner Apache Song first-up, having developed a strong rapport with the mare through four previous rides, resulting in three victories. He was also in the saddle for her recent Cranbourne jumpout win on July 14.

“It’s great that Blake is riding her, as he had the pick of a few from what I can gather,” Trotter said. “Her trials have been good. Her second one was excellent, and Blake’s post-trial comments were very pleasing.”

Apache Song hasn’t raced since a disappointing run in a Listed event at Moonee Valley in February. However, that followed a career-best third in the Group 2 Australia Stakes behind Schwartz in January.

“She’s a funny horse. She doesn’t give you any indication when she’s coming to the end, she just puts an ordinary run in,” Trotter said. “Maybe the Australia Stakes was her peak. She’d been building into it nicely.”

While her past form at Caulfield hasn’t been inspiring, Trotter believes the now older and stronger mare is better equipped this time around.

“They’re only three once so stepping out to that mile trip wasn’t suitable at that stage,” he said. “She’s matured, both mentally and physically, so we’re pretty excited.”

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