George Ryder Stakes to define Stefi’s autumn carnival target

Bjorn Baker is ready to put Stefi Magnetica’s first-up run behind him, confident that a better barrier draw will give his mare a stronger chance in the George Ryder Stakes.

Stefi Magnetica endured a tough trip in the Canterbury Stakes (1300m), caught wide throughout before making an early move and fading late to finish several lengths off the winner, Royal Patronage.

Despite the unideal run, Baker believes she showed enough to remain optimistic heading into Saturday’s race.

“She had a tough trip, but she still wasn’t beaten by a huge margin,” Baker said.

“Her work on Tuesday was excellent, so we’re happy to push forward and give her a proper chance this time.”

Stefi Magnetica is yet to win beyond 1400m but has proven competitive over longer distances. She ran a strong fifth in the Golden Eagle (1500m) and followed up with a fourth-place finish against top-level competition in the Champions Mile (1600m).

With entries in both the Doncaster Mile and the Queen Of The Turf Stakes, her performance in the George Ryder will determine her path moving forward.

Meanwhile, James Cummings has confirmed that Tom Kitten will contest the George Ryder Stakes after his dominant victory in the All-Star Mile (1600m) at Flemington, where he defeated star galloper Mr Brightside.

Tom Kitten has drawn wide, which will require him to produce his trademark closing finish from the back of the field. Cummings acknowledges the challenge but believes the colt is in top shape.

“He brings All-Star Mile-winning form into this, and the level of opposition he faced in Melbourne was as strong as anything he’ll meet here,” Cummings said.

“He’s coming in third-up, which is a great spot for him. The draw makes things trickier, but he’s in great order and should be right in the finish.”