Tentyris launches into 2025 Coolmore Stud Stakes contention

After missing the Golden Slipper earlier this year, Tentyris has put himself back in the Group 1 spotlight with an impressive win in the Listed Gothic Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield, setting him up perfectly for the upcoming Coolmore Stud Stakes.

The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained colt was forced out of his two-year-old campaign after sustaining a stress fracture but has returned in fine order. His eye-catching performance on Saturday confirmed his progression ahead of the spring’s premier three-year-old sprint at Flemington.

Ridden by Mark Zahra, Tentyris ($2.25 favourite) was settled at the tail of the field before unleashing his trademark burst in the straight, running down Raging Force ($4.40) to win by a neck. Queensland filly Sheeza Alibi ($16) was a distant third.

“It was devastating to miss the Slipper — we really thought he was our best chance that year,” Sam Freedman said. “But maybe it’s worked out for the best. He’s had time to develop, and this prep has been about getting him right for the Coolmore.”

Freedman revealed that the colt had returned from his break carrying 30kg more than before his injury, but praised his team for their patience in bringing him back to peak condition.

“It’s been a slow build, but he’s improving every week,” he said. “He still has more to come fitness-wise, but that’s what we wanted — to have him peaking for Flemington.”

The Freedman team now has their eyes set firmly on the Coolmore Stud Stakes on the opening day of Melbourne Cup week, a race that often defines future stallions.

“He’s happiest when buried away and allowed to let rip late,” Freedman said. “Mark rode him perfectly — that’s exactly how he needs to be ridden. When he’s surrounded by horses, he switches on.”

“We’ll keep him ticking over at Mornington and give him a light piece of work before the Coolmore. He’s in great shape, and he’ll only improve from here.”

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