The new Spring Carnival layout, which places the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield this weekend, has worked out ideally for Jimmysstar according to trainer Ciaron Maher.
Fresh off his strong performance in the $3 million Russell Balding Stakes (1300m), the gelding has returned home in excellent order.
“He’s super. He’s in career best form,” Maher said.
With multiple wins already at 1400m, and a victory at 1500m when he first arrived in Australia, Maher believes the step up suits perfectly.
“He’s just a good horse and he’s right in the zone,” Maher said.
“If The Everest didn’t exist, he probably would’ve started at 1200 and built up to this trip naturally, but he showed at 1300 he’s ready for 1400.”
Known for settling off the pace, Jimmysstar has shown improved tactical versatility, including when racing closer in The Everest for a strong third.
“He can sit closer at 1300 and even closer again at 1400,” Maher said.
Regular jockey Ethan Brown retains the ride as the stable’s lone runner in the race.
With over $6 million in earnings, Jimmysstar is $2.80 in early markets, chasing favourite Angel Capital ($2.50), who impressed late in The Everest.
Compare odds for the CF Orr using the Australian betting sites list before placing a bet.