High-class mare Charm Stone is being set for an ambitious international campaign, with connections eyeing a tilt at Royal Ascot—provided she ticks the right boxes in a crucial lead-up run in Adelaide.
The mare is scheduled to contest the Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville on April 26, which will determine whether she presses on to the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot on June 20.
Co-trainer Mick Price confirmed that plans for the overseas campaign are well advanced following recent discussions with ownership.
“At this stage, yes (she will be going),” Price told Racing.com.
“I had a meeting with (owner) Sheamus (Mills) and Nick Smith and Hermione last night. We’ve got the feasibility pretty much down pat.
“We’ve got time for the vaccinations.
“We will stay at Charlie Fellowes’ on the flat part of Newmarket… I’m not going to try and reinvent that mare.”
If Charm Stone makes the trip, leading rider Damian Lane is expected to reunite with her, flying in from Japan for the prestigious sprint.
Lane has partnered the mare seven times, including guiding her to early stakes success in the Group 3 Ottawa Stakes and Group 3 Quezette Stakes.
“I think Damian Lane is going to fly from Japan to ride her in the 1200-metre race, the Jubilee, on the Saturday. So, yeah, that’s our race,” Price said.
Price acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead but remains optimistic about her chances on the international stage.
“Joliestar’s there, she’s won five Group 1s, we’ve won two Group 1s, but it is a horse race. You never know, do you?” he said.
For now, the focus remains firmly on Adelaide, where Charm Stone will look to defend her title before any travel plans are locked in.
“All the information says don’t try and get them fit over there, so we’ll go to the Sangster,” Price added.
An increased Australasian presence is expected at Royal Ascot this year, with several high-profile contenders targeting the meeting, including Asfoora, while Golden Slipper winner Lady Of Camelot and dual Group 1 winner Overpass are also under consideration.
Punters can track Charm Stone’s campaign and compare markets for upcoming features via leading betting sites.
