A significant period has elapsed since Charm Stone last triumphed in the Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley.
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained mare achieved victory in last year’s race at The Valley first-up and is now poised to contest this year’s Group 1 1200m sprint at Caulfield on Sunday, aiming to enhance her record.
This year’s Manikato Stakes has been relocated to Caulfield while the Moonee Valley circuit undergoes necessary upgrades.
Blake Shinn, who partnered Charm Stone to a decisive win last year, has decided to ride Geegees Mistruth on Sunday, despite having ridden the mare in two recent trials at Cranbourne.
Damian Lane is set to take the saddle on Charm Stone.
Charm Stone’s most recent start was a third-place finish in the Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville in April, after which a planned journey to Royal Ascot was abandoned.
Price indicated that the possibility of a Royal Ascot campaign next year remains open for Charm Stone, provided her form this spring and in the autumn warrants such a trip.
“She had an entrapped epiglottis,” Price explained.
“I advised Seamus (Mills) that I wouldn’t risk going to Royal Ascot, as she is a lovely mare and far too valuable. I’m aware the owners are keen on Royal Ascot, and she hasn’t been pushed too hard; if she’s content and healthy, there’s no reason not to consider it next year. She competed in the Sangster with that issue, and she was narrowly defeated, but I’m confident she can return to her best form. The entrapped epiglottis is the least complicated of the procedures, and her throat is now in perfect condition. She’s a beautiful mare, in good condition.”
In last year’s Manikato victory, Charm Stone drew barrier two and enjoyed a flawless run throughout the race.
The circumstances are different this year from barrier 11, but Price believes Caulfield offers a better prospect than The Valley for a horse starting from an outside gate.
“I see no negatives there,” Price stated.
“The 1200 metres is an appropriate starting distance. The chute allows for a fair race, and generally, every horse gets its opportunity, particularly over 1200 metres.”
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