Trainer Rob Heathcote is hoping that September 26 brings redemption for his star sprinter Rothfire. It was on this date in 2020 that Rothfire broke down with a serious sesamoid injury while leading the Group 1 Golden Rose at Rosehill.
Five years on, the gelding is remarkably back at Moonee Valley, set to chase victory in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m). Heathcote said the now eight-year-old embodies toughness and resilience. “I shudder to think how good he could have been if he had not shattered his fetlock in that Golden Rose,” he said. “It’s been a challenge to get him this far, but the horse’s welfare always comes first. If he’s not right, he doesn’t run.”
Rothfire tuned up at The Valley on Monday morning, with Blake Shinn taking the reins for gallop work in place of Nash Rawiller. “Blake came in after riding him and said ‘thank goodness I don’t have to ride him every day’,” Heathcote laughed. “He’s strong, a very strong worker. He’s eight years old but doesn’t know it.”
Rothfire has a proven record at The Valley, although his first-up effort in the Group 1 Moir Stakes was forgettable. “I wish we had that race over again,” Heathcote said. “He loves The Valley and he’s run second in this race before. I’d happily take that again.”
Friday’s 1200m feature has drawn a competitive field of ten, including Moir winner Baraqiel, Lady Shenandoah, Magic Time and Charm Stone. The barrier draw will be decided on Tuesday night.