Shohisha ready to shine in 2025 Denise’s Joy Stakes

Shohisha will look to convert a fresh approach into black-type success when she lines up in the Listed Denise’s Joy Stakes (1100m) at Scone, following a tactical campaign shift from trainer David Payne.

The three-year-old filly was a brave fifth in the Light Fingers Stakes (1200m) earlier this year before Payne decided to step her back from elite company and aim for a softer target.

“We didn’t want to chase those top fillies so we gave her a break and it has done her the world of good,” Payne said.

“She only got beaten a couple of lengths. We thought it was the right thing for the filly to give her a break, come back a rung.

“There is a Group race in her but she was young so we thought we’d let the others burn each other out and we’ll come back fresh hopefully.”

Shohisha has won two of her five career starts and resumes with the top weight of 59kg, although barrier two gives her a tactical advantage.

“She does have a bit of weight but she is racing lesser grade,” Payne said.

“She has come back well and she will be very competitive.”

A win on Saturday could see the promising filly freshened again and aimed at bigger spring features.

Meanwhile, Payne will also saddle up Highborn Harry in the Midway Handicap (1700m), switching the gelding to Scone after opting not to run at Kensington during the week.

“It’s a nice big track which will suit him so he will be competitive,” Payne said.

Tom Sherry has been confirmed to ride both Shohisha and Highborn Harry.

Follow Shohisha’s bid for stakes success and find betting value on the Denise’s Joy Stakes and more with the best odds at Australia’s top betting sites.