Luke Fernie is optimistic about a strong showing from Man Crush when he returns in Saturday’s Listed Bolton Sprint (1200m) at Bunbury, marking the start of his winter campaign.

The five-year-old began 2024 with a bang, claiming the Listed Miss Andretti Stakes (1100m) at Ascot before placing second in both the Scenic Blast Stakes (1200m) and Pinjarra Classic (1300m).

His most recent race came in the Bunbury Stakes (1400m) back in March, and he’ll be hoping to go one better than his narrow second-place finish in last year’s Bolton Sprint.

In preparation, Man Crush cruised through a quiet trial at Belmont last week, finishing fourth behind stablemate Otheronesone over 1000m. Chris Parnham took the reins but didn’t fully extend the gelding.

Fernie believes the addition of blinkers will bring out Man Crush’s best first-up. “He’ll improve with a set of shades on as well,” he told Racing WA. “I’d imagine he will sharpen up a hell of a lot with them on.”

While Man Crush continues his path toward the $1 million prizemoney milestone, stablemate Wild Belle has run her final race and will head to the breeding barn. She retires with five wins, including the Miss Andretti Stakes (1200m) and Rock Magic Stakes (1000m).

“She’s had enough of racing,” said Fernie. “She’ll be a beautiful mum and leaves racing happy and healthy, which is all you can hope for.”

Meanwhile, Fernie remains cautious with Slip The Jab, who was scratched from a recent Bunbury race. Despite two strong trials, he disappointed on debut due to shin soreness and will only return under the right conditions.

“He’s a nice horse, and I want to be careful,” Fernie added. “There’s no point rushing him back and risking another setback.”

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