Manikato Stakes draws small field of seven runners

Seven sprinters are poised to ignite the Moonee Valley track in the highly anticipated Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) this Saturday in Melbourne, Australia.

Fresh from a stellar performance in the Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m), Imperatriz, guided by the skilled Opie Bosson, will stride confidently from barrier four as the odds-on favourite in the A$2 million event.

Mark Walker’s charge seeks to etch her name in history as the first sprinter since Spinning Hill in 2002 to claim the Manikato Stakes and Moir Stakes double, a feat accomplished by only two horses before her.

I Am Me, galloping back to form with a triumph in the Group 3 Sydney Stakes (1200m) on October 14, will make only her second foray into Group 1 territory.

Under the expert guidance of James McDonald, the Ciaron Maher & David Eustace-trained mare brings an impressive record of four victories from six starts at 1200m, albeit against slightly weaker competition.

The rematch promises an exhilarating duel as Uncommon James, steered by Damien Lane, squares off against Imperatriz once more.

The Queenslander, who fell short by 2.25 lengths in their previous encounter in the Moir Stakes on September 29, seeks redemption after securing second place against Asfoora in the Group 2 Schillaci Stakes (1100m).

In pursuit of his inaugural Group 1 victory, Buenos Noches, ridden by Blake Shinn, will endeavour to overcome a 3.5-length setback in The Everest (1200m).

Trainer Matthew Smith‘s hope for a change in weather conditions is evident, as the four-year-old thrives on softer ground.

Completing the lineup are The Inferno, Jigsaw, and I Am War, each poised to leap into the race with potential surprises at enticing odds.