Prebble’s chance to make a Splash in the Aurie’s Star Handicap 2025

Grahame Begg has retained Tom Prebble to ride Splash Back in the Group 3 Aurie’s Star Handicap at Flemington this Saturday, rewarding the apprentice for his recent success on the talented mare.

Prebble guided Splash Back to consecutive victories at Caulfield and Flemington in June, prompting Begg to keep faith with the young jockey as the five-year-old French-bred mare drops back to 1200m for the $200,000 feature.

“He’s won her past two and can ride at 54kg, so it’s a straightforward decision,” Begg said. “Tom’s been very committed, riding her trackwork and taking her in a jump-out last week, so he’s earned this ride.”

The ride gives Prebble another chance at black type success after his breakthrough win on outsider Title Fighter in May’s Listed Straight Six.

Splash Back is the all-in favourite among 13 nominations that include straight-track performers Joyful Fortune, Marble Nine, Bossy Nic, Group 2 winner Lady In Pink, French import Cote Atlantique and emerging sprinter King Of Roseau.

Begg said Splash Back had come on beautifully between runs and believed the Aurie’s Star’s conditions would suit her perfectly.

“Looking at the race history, it often attracts small fields and gives fillies a weight advantage,” he said. “She’s proven around Flemington, can sit off the pace, and I think it sets up ideally for her.”