Antino better-equipped for second G1 Memsie Stakes test
Queensland’s Antino is preparing for another shot at the Group 1 Memsie Stakes, with Tony Gollan declaring his stable star has grown tougher and more seasoned since last year’s attempt.
The son of Redwood finished fourth in the 2024 Memsie behind Pinstriped before a breakout campaign highlighted by his emphatic victory in the Group 1 Toorak Handicap and his narrow defeat to Mr Brightside in the Champions Mile. He returned this winter to capture the Hollindale Stakes and the Doomben Cup.
“He’s a better horse this time, I think,” Gollan said. “He’s a really mature animal now. He’s well used to the travel and just feels more durable. The Doomben Cup campaign has given him a great platform for this spring.”
Antino recently trialled quietly at Cranbourne over 1000m, finishing eighth, but his trainer said the run brought him on perfectly. “I was really pleased with it and he’s come on from that. He’s in good shape,” he said.
The 2025 Memsie has drawn a glittering entry list of 16, with defending winners Pinstriped and Mr Brightside joined by Group 1 stars Fangirl, Private Eye, Another Wil, Tom Kitten, Treasurethe Moment and Buckaroo. The undercard boasts the McNeil Stakes featuring Devil Night and Vinrock, and the Cockram Stakes with Magic Time.
Markets for Antino and all Memsie Stakes contenders are now available through Australia’s premier betting sites.
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