Entries taken for 2025 Spring Racing Carnival features
Matt Laurie’s star mare Treasurethe Moment is gearing up for a high-profile spring campaign, with a jump-out at Mornington marking the first step toward either the Caulfield Cup or Cox Plate.
The Oaks-winning mare is nominated for both features after entries closed on Tuesday, with 146 for the Caulfield Cup and 108 for the Cox Plate. This year's international numbers are significantly reduced compared to last season.
Treasurethe Moment was dominant last spring with wins in both the VRC Oaks and Australian Oaks. Her return begins at Mornington ahead of a first-up run in the Memsie Stakes at Caulfield on August 30.
The plan is to continue through the Makybe Diva Stakes on September 13 and the Turnbull Stakes on October 4, before her path is decided.
“She’s a very versatile mare and has matured beautifully,” Laurie said. “Whether it’s the Cox Plate or Caulfield Cup, I’m confident she’ll be competitive.”
Laurie admits the Cox Plate’s high-calibre field might steer them toward the Caulfield Cup. “She’s proven at 2400m and has the right temperament to handle a tough staying test,” he said.
“We’re taking the pressure off a little. She’s already achieved plenty and now we just want to see her take the next step against the older horses.”
The filly has returned in great order and is showing signs she’s ready to peak again. “She’s thriving,” Laurie said. “She looks more advanced in her coat than many of the others.”
Laurie has also entered promising colt Vinrock for the Cox Plate with the Golden Rose in Sydney firmly on his radar.
Among other leading contenders, Chris Waller dominates with 32 entries for the Caulfield Cup and 29 for the Cox Plate. Ciaron Maher has also nominated 25 runners in the Cup and seven in the Plate, including 2024 winner Duke De Sessa.
Globally, Joseph O’Brien has four Caulfield Cup nominations, while Aidan O’Brien has four horses entered across both features including Cox Plate hopefuls Diego Velazquez and Whirl.
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