Shockletz qualifies for the Melbourne Cup after Archer Stakes victory
A twelve-month strategic initiative has successfully culminated in Shockletz earning her place in the prestigious Melbourne Cup.
As a progeny of Shocking, the celebrated 2009 Melbourne Cup winner, Shockletz secured a 'Golden Ticket' into the iconic 'race that stops a nation' through her victory in the Group 3 Archer Stakes (2500m) held at Flemington on Saturday.
Sporting blinkers for the first time, Shockletz, under the guidance of Harry Coffey, was the $2.90 favourite and delivered a 2-¼ length win ahead of Think Giant ($9). Jennivamoose ($6.50) secured third place, a length behind the runner-up.
Trainer Ciaron Maher attributed the mare's success on Saturday significantly to the addition of blinkers.
"I thought she was having a bit of a lend," Maher stated.
"I could see her prick her ears in the last 100 metres at Caulfield and Jennivamoose actually went past her.
"I was toying with whether I put winkers or blinkers on, but as (part-owner) Lawrence (Eales) said, Shocking won the Cup with blinkers on, so I thought we would go with them.
"The team has done a great job managing her. It has been a long-range plan to get her into the Cup and back at Flemington, blinkers on, she'll run two miles, so they can dare to dream."
Maher, who has a history of success with winter staying prospects and their path to the Cups, noted similarities between Shockletz and High Emocean, a third-place finisher in the 2022 Melbourne Cup.
"She's a lighter style mare that doesn't take a lot of work, like High Emocean, is clean winded and you just have to have them happy and well," Maher explained.
"The longer the prep, not a lot of work, suits her.
"Thankfully the little tinker, and a good ride by Harry, we were very confident watching the race."
With Shockletz now holding a Melbourne Cup ballot exemption, Maher indicated that her program could be meticulously planned working backward from the November 3rd running of the Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington.
"She won't be over-raced, she will be on the fresher side," he confirmed.
Betting markets for the race are expected to be competitive as the Melbourne Cup approaches.
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