Rothfire will again line up at Moonee Valley on September 26, a date that brings back painful memories for trainer Rob Heathcote. It was on that day in 2020 the gelding sustained a career-threatening fetlock injury in the Group 1 Golden Rose.

Four years of perseverance later, Rothfire returns for another tilt at Group 1 success in the Manikato Stakes. “It’s been a challenge to get him here, but he’s sound and he’s happy,” Heathcote said. “If he’s not right, he doesn’t run.”

The Valley track has always been kind to Rothfire, and he sharpened up there on Monday with Blake Shinn standing in for Nash Rawiller in a searching gallop. “He’s so strong,” Heathcote said. “Blake came back saying he was delighted with his work. He’s eight but has the attitude of a horse half his age.”

Heathcote was disappointed with Rothfire’s luckless run in the Group 1 Moir Stakes earlier this spring but is confident of a better showing on Friday night. “He’s run second in this race before and I’d be thrilled if he repeated that.”

The Manikato field includes Moir winner Baraqiel, classy mare Lady Shenandoah and rising stars Magic Time, Skybird and Charm Stone. Barriers will be drawn on Tuesday evening.