Trainer Phillip Stokes has seen plenty of racing plans fall apart over the years — but his carefully mapped campaign with Caulfield Cup contender Deakin has gone exactly to script.
After the stayer’s victory in the Roy Higgins Quality at Flemington in March, which secured him a ballot exemption into the Melbourne Cup (3200m), Stokes outlined a spring pathway designed to have Deakin peaking for the major staying features. So far, every box has been ticked.
While the trainer admits he’s not certain the gelding will see out a strong two miles at Flemington, he’s confident the 2400 metres of Saturday’s Caulfield Cup is ideal.
Deakin rounded out his preparation with a strong sixth behind Sir Delius in the Turnbull Stakes (2000m) earlier this month — a performance that convinced Stokes his charge is ready to perform at the highest level.
“The horse is flying,” Stokes said.
“His last run was spot on. He needs that extra 400 metres now. I’m really happy with him.
“He’s got a nice barrier, he’ll get his chance, and he’ll give a great sight.”
Deakin has been gradually building fitness this campaign, resuming over 1400 metres at Caulfield in late August before stepping up to 1700 metres at Flemington, with a 1200-metre Pakenham jump-out in between to sharpen him up. That extra conditioning, Stokes says, has been pivotal.
“There wasn’t the speed last time, but they should go along in the Caulfield Cup, and he’s drawn to get the right run,” he said.
“He was strong through the line last time and he’s come on again since the run.
“It’s all going to plan and he’s peaking at the right time.”
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