Veteran stakes winners Ironstein and Youthful Jack are among 27 entries for the Scone Cup, the feature race on the first day of the richest country carnival in NSW.
Trainer Gerald Ryan admits Ironstein is nearing the end of his career but says he is in good shape following his first-up run at Randwick.
The eight-year-old ran home for an eye-catching fifth behind Cup rival Kaypers over 1400 metres at Randwick on April 26.
“He is fit and well and going to Scone,” Ryan said.
“I was very pleased with his first-up run. I’m not sure where we are going with him but he is enjoying himself.”
Doomben Cup favourite Leebaz was also among the entries taken on Monday and was given top weight of 59kg with his stablemate Mecir one of four on 58kg along with Destiny’s Kiss, Prince Cheri and Tromso.
There are 254 entires for the Friday meeting and 160 for Saturday which features the $400,000 Inglis Scone Guineas and the $200,000 Dark Jewel, both over 1400 metres.
The club’s chief executive Sarah Wills said she and the committee were delighted with the response from owners and trainers.
“The numbers for Friday are incredible,” she said.
“Numbers for Saturday are down a little but that has been made up for with the quality of the horses nominated.
“This all augurs well for an outstanding two days of racing.”