In horse racing, plans are made but don’t always come to fruition.
For Phillip Stokes and his Caulfield Cup hope Deakin, everything has gone to a plan mapped out by the trainer soon after the stayer scored at Flemington in March.
That victory came in the Roy Higgins Quality which secured Deakin a ballot exemption into the Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on November 4.
While Stokes is a little apprehensive about Deakin running out a strong 3200m, the trainer has no qualms about the 2400m of the Caulfield Cup on Saturday.
Deakin rounded out his Caulfield Cup campaign with a pleasing sixth behind Sir Delius in the Turnbull Stakes (2000m) at Flemington on October 4.
That run came after a first up 1400m run at Caulfield on August 30 and then a 1700m outing at Flemington on September 13.
In between the two Flemington assignments was a 1200m Pakenham jump-out which Stokes said had been highly beneficial to Deakin’s campaign.
Stokes is confident Deakin can be around the money at the business end of Saturday’s contest.
“The horse is flying,” Stokes said.
“His last run was spot on. He needs that extra 400 metres now. I’m really happy with him.
“He’s got a nice barrier, he’ll get his chance, and he’ll give a great sight.”
Deakin sat handy to the speed in the Turnbull Stakes in a slowly run race but was outsprinted when the field turned for home.
Pleasingly for Stokes and connections, Deakin stuck on bravely and was strong through the line.
“There wasn’t the speed last time, but they should go along in the Caulfield Cup, and he’s drawn to get the right run,” Stokes said.
“He was strong through the line last time and he’s come on again since the run.
“It’s all going to plan and he’s peaking at the right time.”
