Ciaron Maher chasing redemption in 2025 The 7 Stakes at Randwick races

Ciaron Maher will be represented by Gringotts and Light Infantry Man in Saturday’s $1 million 7 Stakes (1400m) at Randwick, both looking for redemption after a luckless return in the Winx Stakes.

Gringotts produced the better effort, finishing fifth behind Via Sistina, and has since trialled impressively at Wyong. Maher was optimistic about the gelding’s progress. “He will improve a fair bit off his first run,” he said. “My other horse (Light Infantry Man) ended up getting on his heels and then they revved him up and he revved himself up and it all just went pear-shaped. It wasn’t ideal.”

The George Ryder hero, who beat Fangirl in March, again faces the Chris Waller-trained mare among a strong list of 7 Stakes nominations that also includes Ceolwulf and Private Eye. Maher has also nominated consistent gelding Detonator Jack.

For Light Infantry Man, a return to firmer footing could be the key after his last-place finish on the bog track. Maher sees Saturday’s run as a stepping stone. “His best win was on that really hot tempo in the Australian Cup. He thrived on it, so that’s the way I was thinking. Maybe through a Hill Stakes and down for that. That’s the rough plan.”

The Randwick card is stacked, with the $1 million The Shorts featuring Everest contenders Joliestar, Briasa and Private Harry. Headwall, who won last year, will not defend his crown after sustaining an untimely injury, placing his spring campaign in jeopardy.