Scone's Luskin Star Stakes sees Estadio Mestalla with tough weight

Trainer Joe Pride questions the two-kilo advantage given to a Group 1 winner over Estadio Mestalla in the Luskin Star Stakes, but trusts the steady gelding to deliver full commitment.

At seven years old, he notched his top triumph in the prior year's Listed Winter Stakes (1100m) and must shoulder 61kg for Scone's Saturday highlight, compared to 59kg for Linebacker, the 2025 Randwick Guineas champ who took the Group 3 Silver Eagle (1300m) in spring.

"Explain that one to me," Pride quipped.

"He is curiously weighted."

The gelding excels under pressure, prevailing with 63kg at Randwick during Melbourne Cup Day and placing with 61kg in the Summer Cup (2000m) last December.

According to Pride, Estadio Mestalla's sturdy physique assists with substantial loads, but other elements play a role too.

"I have also had some good small horses able to do it," Pride said.

"He's a very well-balanced horse, and quality helps them carry weight. If they're not good, they can't carry it against anyone."

Beyond the weights, Pride foresees another bold effort from Estadio Mestalla since his strong-finishing sixth in the Hawkesbury Gold Rush (1100m), his initial outing after summer.

This Luskin Star Stakes (1300m) on Saturday acts as a milestone en route to the horse's key objective, the upcoming Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) in Brisbane, and Pride considers it achievable for his stablemate.

"He will peak third-up, but he will run very well at Scone," he said.

"The Stradbroke is his goal."

Notable past winners of the Scone showdown feature Osborne Bulls (2018), who placed third in The Everest that year and ended as a five-time Group 1 placer; Trekking with his 2019 Luskin Star Stakes to Stradbroke double and Everest placing; and proven quick Lost And Running (2021).

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