Angel to Capitalise on handicap chance in 2025 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes

The path to spring glory is becoming clearer for Angel Capital, with trainer Chris Waller leaning towards the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield as the four-year-old’s next assignment.

The Sir Rupert Clarke, run over 1400 metres this Saturday, will share the spotlight with the Group 1 Underwood Stakes (1800m). Waller admitted the $2 million Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley was under consideration, but believes the handicap conditions of the Caulfield race are a better opportunity.

“We’d love to go the Manikato, but he’ll get in well at the weights in the Sir Rupert Clarke and 1400 will be no problem,” Waller said. “I’d hate to miss the Sir Rupert Clarke and he draw the outside barrier in the Manikato. If he’s good enough to win a Manikato, I’m sure he’ll win plenty of Group 1 races, so we’ll just try the Sir Rupert Clarke.”

Angel Capital has been in red-hot form, storming home to win the Listed Chautauqua Stakes earlier this month at Moonee Valley. That was his first start under Waller’s banner after Yulong purchased him from Clinton McDonald, and the victory lifted his record to five wins from eight starts. “We’ve had to be patient with him, just with wet tracks and timing, but he’s a really nice horse,” Waller said.

A total of 22 nominations were received for the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, headlined by Another Wil and emerging talent Sepals. The Underwood Stakes has also attracted strong entries, including last year’s winner Buckaroo, Melbourne Cup hopeful Sir Delius and 2024 Cup champion Knight’s Choice.