2025 Bletchingly Stakes waiting game with Baraqiel

The Leon and Troy Corstens and Will Larkin training partnership is taking a patient approach with promising sprinter Baraqiel, who is nominated for this Saturday’s Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield, as he prepares for a comeback from injury.

Baraqiel, joined by 11 other entries including Kin, Kallos and Inhibitions from the James Cummings stable, is a chance to line up in the sprint feature. Final nominations close Tuesday morning, and a decision on his participation will be left until the last moment.

Corstens said the 1200-metre trip isn’t ideal first-up as Baraqiel works back from a front leg suspensory injury that sidelined him after a third in The Meteorite. “I’d prefer 1100 metres, but we’ll weigh it up. His fitness will come on a lot from the run,” Corstens said.

Baraqiel also battled a hind leg injury before his debut, delaying his first race start until age five. After winning six of 10 starts, the gelding underwent rehab at the stable’s Benalla farm, including time in a hyperbaric chamber to support healing.

Last week, he signaled readiness with a slick jump-out win at Flemington over Arkansaw Kid. “It was a strong piece of work and he had a good blow, which he needed,” Corstens said. “This is just his second proper prep, and he’s handled everything well.”

The team has identified the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) on AFL Grand Final eve as the primary spring goal. Depending on whether he runs on Saturday, Baraqiel will have either two or three lead-in starts to the Moonee Valley feature.

“We’re working backwards from the Manikato,” Corstens added. “This week’s decision will shape how we plot his spring path.”

Ben Allen will partner Baraqiel should he take his place at Caulfield. Check the latest markets for the Bletchingly Stakes and spring group races at trusted betting sites.