Stretan looking to be a 2025 Newmarket Handicap Angel
Phillip Stokes had a clear plan when targeting the Newmarket Handicap with Stretan Angel, and securing Adelaide jockey Lachlan Neindorf for the ride was a key part of it.
Stokes and Neindorf have had success together before, winning the Group 1 Sangster Stakes in Adelaide last year, and Neindorf remains a regular rider for Stokes’ stable.
Initially, Stokes anticipated Stretan Angel would carry around 52kg in Saturday’s Group 1 1200m sprint at Flemington. However, after several top contenders did not accept, Group 1 Oakleigh Plate winner Jimmysstar was given topweight of 58kg, which raised the weights across the board.
This adjustment means Stretan Angel will carry 55.5kg—3.5kg more than originally expected—but Stokes has kept faith in Neindorf for the ride.
Neindorf guided Stretan Angel to second place behind Skybird in the Group 1 Lightning Stakes (1000m) on February 15, a performance that impressed Stokes.
“He’s heading into this race with confidence,” Stokes said.
“He’s riding really well for us, and we’re pleased to have him on board. We initially booked him expecting she’d get 52kg, but she’s ended up with a bit more.”
Stretan Angel has won two races in her career so far—a Listed event at Morphettville in April 2023 and the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington later that year.
She has also finished second in two Group 1 races, including The Goodwood in Adelaide, where she was beaten by Benedetta, one of her key rivals this Saturday, as well as in the Lightning Stakes when resuming last start.
Her first-up Lightning Stakes effort reassured Stokes that she had returned in top form.
“She ran even better than I expected first-up,” Stokes said.
“I thought she’d be in the top four, but running second was a fantastic result.
“She’s second-up now and loves the straight. The competition will be strong, but she meets many of the same horses at better weights.
“The 1200 meters is perfect for her, so we’re looking forward to seeing what she can do.”
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