Flemington-based trainer Nick Ryan has set his sights on the prestigious Group 1 CF Orr Stakes (1400m) for Munhamek following the gelding’s impressive victory in the Group 3 Damien Oliver Gold Rush (1400m) in his last outing.
Ryan sees the upcoming Caulfield feature as a strategic pathway to secure a spot in the coveted All Star Mile (1600m), with the Orr Stakes offering a ‘win-and-you’re-in’ ticket for the $5 million event.
In an interview with Racing.com, Ryan expressed his confidence in Munhamek’s chances.
“I think the Orr is a realistic option for him. We are chasing a spot in the All-Star Mile with him, which is our ultimate goal, and hopefully, we can get in,” said Ryan.
“He had three runs last spring, and he’s hard and fit. He had his last run on December 16. We might be able to catch his key rivals on the hop.”
Munhamek hasn’t been seen since claiming the Group 3 Gold Rush (1400m) at Ascot, in what turned out to be a fairtytale finish to Damien Oliver’s career.
“He had eight days in the paddock in Perth post-race at the Gangemis’s property.
When he arrived back at Flemington, he had put on 20 kilos from when he left. He’s pulled up well. He’s done super.
“He’s an older horse who thrives in the stable as he loves being in work.”
Top horse racing bookmakers have Munhamek rated as a $51 chance for the 2024 All Star Mile on March 16.
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