Begg pair trial well at Cranbourne

Ultra-reliable sprinter Maharba is set to launch his autumn campaign, with his trainer aiming for a breakthrough Group 1 triumph.

Having twice competed at the elite level, Maharba finished midfield as a juvenile in Sydney and was runner-up in his most recent outing, the Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) in Perth.

Following a Cranbourne trial on Monday, trainer Grahame Begg has targeted the Group 3 Rubiton Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield this Saturday for Maharba’s seasonal return. The gelding is among 18 nominations for the event.

While the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) on February 22 remains an outside possibility, Begg prefers to aim for the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8.

The sprinter’s Victorian campaign is expected to wrap up in the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on March 22, after which Begg will consider interstate races.

Maharba secured third place in Monday’s trial, and Begg was pleased with his performance in a heat won by Rey Magnerio.

“He had an easy time as he’s heading to the Rubiton Stakes on Saturday, and we’ll decide whether to go to the Oakleigh Plate or wait for the Newmarket,” Begg said.

“I’m inclined to wait for the Newmarket. He enjoys racing up the straight, and he benefits from some spacing between runs. Second-up, the Oakleigh Plate might be a little sharp for him.

“There’s also the William Reid at Moonee Valley, and then we’ll assess Sydney options, plus the Quokka in Perth.

“We’ve had some interest in the Quokka, but sending him to Perth twice in one prep might be too demanding. However, he’s in great shape, and I’m confident there’s a big race for him this season.”

Stablemate Magic Time also impressed in an earlier trial on Monday and is set to campaign in Sydney for the autumn.

Begg believes Magic Time is in peak condition following two jump-outs and expects a strong season ahead.

The Group 2 Expressway Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on February 15 has been chosen as her first-up assignment.

“She really appreciated the rain we got overnight,” Begg said.

“The track had a bit of give, and she handled it comfortably. She worked through her gears well, and this trial sets her up nicely for Sydney.

“She’ll travel up later this week for the Expressway Stakes. She performs best on ground with some cut in it, which she’s more likely to find in Sydney.”

Following her first run, Magic Time is set for the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m), after which Begg will evaluate future race options.

“We have the flexibility to target a race like the George Ryder Stakes or stick to mares’ events,” he said.