Second shot at G1 Oakleigh Plate for Rey Magnerio

Trainer Robbie Griffiths is feeling more at ease with Rey Magnerio’s preparation as the gelding prepares for a Group 1 race at Caulfield.

Rey Magnerio will make his second attempt at the Oakleigh Plate (1100m) on Saturday, after finishing ninth in the race last year.

Griffiths shared that last year Rey Magnerio was still in his first racing preparation, whereas this year, he has been able to strategically plan the gelding's campaign.

"Two years ago, when he won at the Spring Carnival, it was a benchmark 80," Griffiths explained.

"He didn’t have enough points, and it would have been a disadvantage to target the Oakleigh Plate last year, so we went for the summer series instead."

"He won at Geelong, he won at Caulfield, and earned his spot without a real break, just a freshen, in what was basically his first campaign."

"This time, we’ve rested him, targeted the spring with five races, finished after the Meteorite (at Cranbourne), freshened him up, and we’re back again."

"That’s kept us from constantly jumping in grades, unlike last year."

During the spring, Rey Magnerio mostly raced in Stakes company, and his current campaign began with a win in the Group 2 Rubiton Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on February 8.

"He was competing at a high level in the spring, and now, in the autumn, he’s ready for the big races, which was a challenge for him early in his career last year," Griffiths said.

"We had a poor draw last year, and it affected him, but this year, he’s stronger, and with a favorable draw of five and good horses around him, we’re confident."

"He’s come back well, and his gallops have been impressive. With the draw, he should have a great opportunity."

"Knowing his fighting spirit, I think we have a good chance."

Griffiths is also eyeing the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8 as another major goal for Rey Magnerio.

Griffiths celebrated his first Group 1 win in the Newmarket Handicap when The Quarterback claimed victory in 2016.