Seraphox to kick off Guineas campaign in McNeil Stakes

It remains uncertain precisely how many runners Ciaron Maher will field in this Saturday's $200,000 H D F McNeil Stakes, but one colt guaranteed to compete is Seraphox.

This son of Harry Angel is set to commence a campaign that has been meticulously planned with the $3 million Group 1 Caulfield Guineas as its ultimate objective, beginning with the 1200-metre Group 3 event at Caulfield.

Maher's stablemate Unit Five, who was scratched from Sandown last Saturday, is anticipated to be a rival. Furthermore, Maher has entered Tornado Valley and Milsons Point, both of whom competed over 1400m at Sandown last Saturday, though their final acceptance is pending.

Jack Turnbull, assistant trainer for Maher's stable, confirmed Seraphox's participation, stating that the McNeil Stakes represents the ideal launching pad for an assault on the 1600m Caulfield Guineas scheduled for October 10.

"We see him as a 1400-metre horse, miler and he's on a Guineas path," Turnbull commented.

"He's forward and ready to run a bit of a race, but I'd say he'll be midfield and running on."

"He'll be competitive but he's probably not going to be as sharp as some of the others in that race."

Among Seraphox's potential challengers, in addition to his Maher stable companions, are the Kiwi Group 1 victor Seize The Day, the exciting colt American Eagle, Todman Stakes placegetter Wolf Gap, Sydney-based colt Confederation, and Anzac Day Stakes winner Blind Raise.

Seraphox finished third in the Listed Anzac Day Stakes, his inaugural start in Victoria following a maiden win at Warwick Farm. Prior to that, he placed seventh on debut in the Group 2 Todman Stakes, a testament to the consistent high regard Maher's stable has held for Seraphox.

Turnbull put forward Seraphox and Tornado Valley as the stable's premier selections for the Guineas as the spring racing season approached. Magic Millions winner Unit Five is earmarked for the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) on Derby Day.

While the son of Supido is set to face a more competitive field at Caulfield than he would have encountered under the 59.5kg impost on Saturday's Heavy track over 1000m, Turnbull indicated that a combination of factors made the Caulfield race a more appealing prospect.

"How the track was, the way it's been playing, the weight and having the option of the McNeil," Turnbull explained regarding the decision to delay his start.

"He had a fair while off after that Magics prep and he's come back really well, so we're looking forward to getting back to the races."

For those keen on the H D F McNeil Stakes, explore the various online bookmakers for the latest betting markets for the race.