Gringotts set to smash $1m The Gong again

Gringotts appears likely to be the lone Maher-trained runner lining up in The Gong, with next Saturday’s feature meeting once again shifting to Kembla Grange as part of Sydney’s regional spring schedule.

Maher, who has already left his mark on numerous major races, now has an unusual accolade within reach. Gringotts could join an elite club by completing a rare ‘double-double’ should he capture the 1600-metre, $1 million Group 3 contest.

The gelding has already secured back-to-back wins in The Big Dance, having repeated his 2023 triumph with a dominant display on Melbourne Cup Day two weeks ago.

“He’s come out of The Big Dance super,” Maher said.

“He’s probably in career best form.”

While the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes had been earmarked as the main target, blood test setbacks forced the stable to regroup, ultimately steering Gringotts back to a path he has since excelled on.

Gringotts is the early $2.50 elect for The Gong, with several stablemates heading in separate directions. Vivy Air is bound for Perth, while Duke De Sessa—the 2024 Caulfield Cup winner—is set for a spell.

After finishing runner-up to Gringotts in The Big Dance before scoring in the Five Diamonds (1800m), Vivy Air will now take aim at the prestigious Northerly Stakes at Ascot on December 6, where she is a $15 chance.

Connections remain undecided about Lugh, who ran third in The Big Dance, helping Maher sweep the trifecta.

“He felt the run in The Big Dance and we are still leaving the door open for him to start with Gringotts but a decision is still to come,” Maher’s national assistant Jack Turnbull said.

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