Ciaron Maher and the connections of Jimmysstar have been offered a spot in the All-Star Mile after a comprehensive first-up win at Caulfield.
Jimmysstar is the second member of the Maher team to be announced as an All-Star Mile (1600m) contestant at Caulfield on March 16, after Pride Of Jenni was confirmed as a starter on Friday.
The pair joins Mr Brightside who was announced as a starter by Racing Victoria last month.
Racing Victoria’s Executive General Manager – Racing, Matt Welsh, offered Maher the All-Star Mile start soon after Jimmsstar had won the Sportsbet Get On Extra Handicap (1400m) on Saturday.
Sent out the $1.65 favourite under Blake Shinn, Jimmysstar cruised to a 2-¾ length win from Who Dares ($5) with Forbidden City ($21) a further 1-¼ lengths away third.
Jimmysstar was a little slow into stride, but Shinn was quickly able to recover the lost ground to take a midfield position.
“We’re pretty chuffed to get that sort of offer for the All-Star Mile and I’m sure the owners will be pretty chuffed as well,” Maher said.
“He’s got a bright future.
“For a ratings horse to then say you’re racing at weight-for-age, it’s a big thing, but certainly what he has shown us, he does show that talent that not many horses possess.
“I know it’s only a ratings race today, but he just continues to do it as we continue to raise the bar.”
Maher said there would be no rush in planning a campaign to the All-Star Mile as Jimmysstar will be able to take the easiest route without having to win his way in.
“We have an end goal for him now,” Maher said.