The exact number of runners Ciaron Maher will deploy in this Saturday’s $200,000 H D F McNeil Stakes is not yet confirmed, however, one colt who is a definite starter is Seraphox.
This Harry Angel colt is slated to commence a racing campaign that has been meticulously planned with the $3 million Group 1 Caulfield Guineas in October as its primary target, with the 1200-metre Group 3 event at Caulfield serving as the initial step.
Maher’s stablemate Unit Five, a scratching from Sandown last Saturday, is expected to be a rival. Additionally, Maher has entered Tornado Valley and Milsons Point, both of whom competed over 1400m at Sandown last Saturday, though their final decisions are pending.
Jack Turnbull, the assistant trainer for Maher, confirmed Seraphox’s participation, identifying the McNeil Stakes as the perfect launching pad for his pursuit of the 1600m Caulfield Guineas on October 10.
“We see him as a 1400-metre horse, miler and he’s on a Guineas path,” Turnbull stated.
“He’s forward and ready to run a bit of a race, but I’d say he’ll be midfield and running on.”
“He’ll be competitive but he’s probably not going to be as sharp as some of the others in that race.”
Alongside his Maher stablemates, Seraphox’s potential competitors include the Group 1 winning Kiwi galloper Seize The Day, the promising colt American Eagle, Todman Stakes placegetter Wolf Gap, Sydney colt Confederation, and Anzac Day Stakes winner Blind Raise.
Seraphox’s record includes a third place in the Listed Anzac Day Stakes, his first outing in Victoria after a Warwick Farm maiden victory. This followed a debut seventh in the Group 2 Todman Stakes, reflecting the high opinion Maher’s stable has always held of Seraphox.
Turnbull nominated Seraphox and Tornado Valley as the stable’s top two contenders for the Guineas heading into the spring. Magic Millions winner Unit Five is set for the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) on Derby Day.
Although the son of Supido will face a tougher field at Caulfield than he might have under the 59.5kg weight on Saturday’s Heavy track over 1000m, Turnbull noted that a number of factors made the Caulfield race a more appealing choice.
“How the track was, the way it’s been playing, the weight and having the option of the McNeil,” Turnbull explained as reasons for the strategic decision.
“He had a fair while off after that Magics prep and he’s come back really well, so we’re looking forward to getting back to the races.”
If you’re interested in the H D F McNeil Stakes, consider checking out Australian betting sites for the latest racing odds.
