Trainer Bjorn Baker is optimistic about Arapaho’s chances this autumn, believing the experienced gelding is well-positioned to secure another victory in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes at Rosehill.
Arapaho first claimed the Tancred title two years ago and is now gearing up for a return to the 2400m weight-for-age contest this Saturday, having bypassed last year’s edition.
With a win this weekend, the eight-year-old could join the likes of Tie The Knot and Octagonal as a multiple Tancred champion. Tie The Knot claimed back-to-back wins in 1999 and 2000, while Octagonal triumphed as both a three-year-old in 1996 and again in 1997.
In his most recent outing, Arapaho finished a strong second behind fellow Tancred contender Vauban in the Group 3 Sky High Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill on March 15. Prior to that, he posted solid fifth-place finishes in the Apollo Stakes (1400m) and the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m), showing his versatility across different distances.
Baker is eager to see how Arapaho performs when stretching out to 2400m, a trip that has historically suited him.
“He’s going great,” Baker said.
“Of course, he won the race two years ago.
“His runs this preparation have been outstanding, it’s hard to think he’s not going better than ever.
“The 2400 metres suits, he looks good and I think he definitely goes in a really good chance.
“We know he excels at 2400 metres, that’s probably his best distance.
“So I think with a bigger field and more tempo on, it will suit him.”
Arapaho’s staying credentials extend beyond his Tancred victory. He also claimed the Group 2 Zipping Classic (2400m) in Melbourne last spring, and his nine career wins include the Listed Grafton Cup over 2350m.
Baker believes the gelding is approaching peak condition at the right time.
“And his work since (his last start) has been very good,” he said.
“So we’re very, very happy with him.”
Rachel King will once again partner with Arapaho on race day.
As for the early betting markets, UK raider Dubai Honour, trained by William Haggas, is the current $2.80 favourite for the Tancred Stakes. Vauban follows at $3.50, while Arapaho is priced at $6 according to online betting sites.
Dubai Honour made an impression during the 2023 Sydney autumn carnival, winning both the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m) and the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m).
Saturday’s Rosehill program will also feature another elite-level contest, the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) for three-year-old fillies.
