Star US galloper joins Maher stable to target 2025 Queen Anne Stakes
A visit to the Kentucky Derby last year has resulted in Ciaron Maher securing elite US galloper Carl Spackler, who will line up in the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot before targeting the Cox Plate in Australia.
The Lope De Vega entire has been a standout on American turf, winning three Grade 1 races from just 12 starts. Following a vetting process and negotiations handled largely by Maher himself, the deal was finalised and Carl Spackler will now carry Yulong’s colours in the UK and beyond.
“Ciaron developed connections during his trip to the Kentucky Derby and has kept an eye on horses from that region,” explained Maher Racing’s Head of Bloodstock, Will Bourne. “Carl Spackler ticked all the boxes—form, pedigree, and a strong finish on firm ground.”
Bourne said the entire is ideally suited to Australian racing. “He’s by Lope De Vega, a stallion with a proven record here, and this horse has been running on firm, turning tracks in the US, which gives us confidence heading into the Cox Plate later this year.”
The horse is scheduled to fly to Newmarket on Thursday ahead of his Royal Ascot campaign.
Carl Spackler is currently a $21 chance in Cox Plate betting with online bookmaker swiftbet.
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