Trainer Dan Clarken has revealed that South Australian fan favourite The Map will take on an unlikely challenge this spring, with the Melbourne Cup firmly in her sights.
The multiple Stakes-winning mare was on the brink of retirement earlier this year after her autumn campaign was cut short, but a return to training was sparked when she went unsold as a broodmare prospect at the Inglis Chairman’s Sale in Sydney.
The daughter of Alpine Eagle trialled over 1000 metres at Murray Bridge last Monday in a quiet hit-out, and Clarken has been encouraged by what he has seen in recent weeks.
While the 2025 Melbourne Cup — where she is quoted at $101 — is the ultimate aim, Clarken stressed that a variety of attractive staying contests are also on the radar should Flemington not come to fruition.
“She spelled really well and she’s probably twice as big as we’ve ever seen her so it may take a little bit of time to get it off her,” Clarken said.
“There’s a big whiteboard at home with races mapped out all over the thing but the reality is that there are heaps of options for her.
“You’d love to be able to get her back to a Melbourne Cup.
“Whether it happens is a different story but we’re certainly going to give her the option to do it but it’s a long spring and there are plenty of nice races for her.”
Ridden by Emily Finnegan in her trial, The Map began slowly and settled last before working to the line under a quiet ride, finishing five lengths behind Rubamos.
Clarken was satisfied with the effort despite her sluggish getaway.
“It was her first bit of work (for the preparation) and she was good, although she was up to her same old antics and was a little bit slow into stride.
“She worked to the line well without being knocked around.
“She’s pretty well where I want her at this stage.”