Charm Stone sizzles in 2025 Robert Sangster Stakes win
Charm Stone delivered on her enormous potential by claiming the Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville, giving star hoop Mark Zahra another feature success on the day.
Bred by I Am Invincible and a $1.55 million yearling purchase, Charm Stone finally broke through at the elite level, much to the delight of co-trainer Mick Price.
“The very pleasing thing is she’s a beautiful mare,” Price said.
“We’ve had her since she was a baby. She’s one of Seamus’ (Mills) yearling buyers and look… just very, very satisfying to get a Group One for those guys, the mare has deserved it.”
Returning after a second-place finish in the Magic Millions Cup (1300m), Charm Stone ($11 betting) tracked sweetly in transit before overpowering Ameena ($15) late, while Commemorative ($6.50 equal fav) filled third spot.
Charm Stone’s career had been interrupted by a long layoff due to a knee injury sustained after her unlucky run in the Golden Rose.
“She ran in the Golden Rose, ran super, couldn’t get a run, got beat a length and a half, chipped a knee,” Price said.
“So we gave her all the time she needed. She’s a sizeable sort of a filly at the time, and she just needed time. To Seamus’ credit, when we discuss things, he listens. He’s always been patient and they’ve reaped the benefit of all those decisions.”
For Zahra, it capped off a memorable day, having earlier saluted aboard Benagil in the Group 1 South Australian Oaks (2000m) and Legacy Bound in the Group 3 Breeders’ Stakes (1200m).
“It’s special. A bit of luck this time last year, a bit more luck this year, but nice to get a couple of good rides for people I ride for, and the races have just worked out, everything went in my favour today,” Zahra said.
Charm Stone will now be aimed towards another major assignment in The Goodwood (1200m), although Zahra may have already committed elsewhere.
“I might have already locked into one, but we can see. I think Giga Kick’s coming that day. Anyway, we’ll celebrate about this one first,” Zahra said.
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