Since arriving from France, Stern Idol has made a name for himself as a standout in the Victorian jumps scene, thrilling punters with his bold, front-running tactics.
The Irish-bred gelding, who initially raced over hurdles in Europe, joined the Ciaron Maher and David Eustace stable in late 2021 and quickly established his jumping credentials in Australia.
With nine wins from 15 jumps starts, Stern Idol will step back up to steeplechase company this Sunday in the Australian Steeplechase (3900m) at Sandown, aiming to replicate his best performances.
He’s already familiar with the Sandown course, having taken out the Crisp Steeplechase (4200m) in consecutive years. However, he failed to finish in each of his past two attempts at the Grand National Steeplechase, weighed down by a hefty impost.
Returning from two preparatory hurdle runs this campaign—where he finished second and fourth—Stern Idol now faces the challenge of 73kg in his Australian Steeplechase debut, having contested the Sandown Cup (3200m) on this card last year.
Maher’s national assistant trainer Jack Turnbull confirmed the shift back to the bigger fences was made after discussions with jockey Steven Pateman, who guided the gelding to a recent trial win at Terang.
“He’s missed the race previously just due to programming and where he is with his handicap,” Turnbull said.
“Ciaron thought as part of his training to get him back over the bigger ones rather than the little ones now as he tends to respect them more and he had a chat to Steve as well.”
Fergus Gregory took the reins last start after Pateman was injured, but Pateman will resume riding duties this weekend.
Despite the weight, Turnbull expects a strong performance. “People underestimate him but he’s a very talented horse once he gets his ground,” he said.
“Whether he goes chasing again (after this) I don’t know, but the horse is very well and I’m sure he’ll have a good second-half of the season.”
For those planning to back Stern Idol or any other runner this weekend, you can find the best odds and promotions at leading Australian betting sites.
