Start crucial to Encap’s chances in the 2025 Shannon Stakes

Encap will chase another Group 1 placing under a program that has worked for him before, with trainer Gary Portelli preparing the gelding for a Shannon Stakes–Epsom Handicap double.

Earlier this year Encap ran fourth in the Doncaster Prelude before backing up only days later to finish a brave third in the Doncaster Mile. Portelli will adopt the same strategy this spring, giving him seven days between Saturday’s Shannon Stakes (1500m) and next weekend’s Epsom Handicap (1600m).

“He’s got to back-up in the Epsom, which is what he did last time,” Portelli said.

“I think I’ve done plenty at home to have him fit enough to be close to the mark. He has grown and matured and he’s more burly, so this weekend will have him spot-on. We had a lot of problems with his feet last campaign. They’ve come good, we’re not dealing with his sore feet anymore so that’s going to help him too.”

Encap was originally targeted for the Missile Stakes in August, but the meeting’s cancellation meant a reshuffle of plans. He resumed instead in the Theo Marks Stakes (1300m) where a slow getaway proved costly.

“He just didn’t begin and he couldn’t make up any significant ground based on the fact the horses up front got home fast and it was a leaders’ track on the day,” Portelli said. “His sectionals read well, 33 and a bit for the last 600 metres. If he jumps and takes a position, he can be right in the finish.”

Saturday’s Shannon Stakes has drawn a field of 12, with the winner earning ballot exemption and penalty-free passage into the Epsom.

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