Startrade started a new campaign of racing on home soil in Geraldton last April, running a short-head second to Corn Cob in a 1100m handicap.
Fast forward seven months and 10 races later and the chestnut gelding finds himself in G1 Railway Stakes (1600m) field for Ascot on Saturday.
Startrade enjoyed a successful association under previous trainer Kim Anderson in Geraldton, but since his transfer to Perth he’s risen to another level.
The first sign for new trainer Dan Morton that he had Ascot carnival potential came after a barnstorming win in the Jolly Beggar Stakes (1000m).
It caught Morton by pleasant surprise and went against his judgment after he intended to use the race as a tune up before the Hannans Handicap (1400m) in Kalgoorlie.
If Startrade’s improvement caught Morton on the hop, it’s also far exceeded the expectations of breeder and co-owner, Lesley Allen.
Allen, who shares ownership of Startrade with her partner, Trevor, had modest ambitions and was happy enough to see if Startrade could win a race in town.
With that goal sealed, never in her wildest imagination did she believe Startrade would go around in one of the state’s biggest and prized races.
Allen is counting down the days to the Railway Stakes and says to win the $1.5 million race would be beyond her wildest dreams.
“Oh, look, it’s a bit of a dream come true getting in the race,” Allen told The Races WA.
“It’s all sinking in still, but we are very excited and it’s pretty amazing he was at Geraldton at the start of the season, now he’s in the Railway.
“It’s a dream come true and I’ve been told to enjoy the ride while it lasts because you might not get another one.
“It’s pretty amazing and that’s what we are doing at the moment, taking it all in and savouring the moment.”
Startrade goes into the Railway Stakes after a slashing second to Treasured Star in the G3 Asian Beau Stakes (1400m).
The six-year-old finished just ahead of Railway Stakes rival Trix Of The Trade with stable mate Alaskan God sixth.
Startrade is currently quoted a $26 chance with Tabtouch and will be ridden by Chris Nicoll.
Alaskan God holds $4 favouritism with Trix Of The Trade at $6, Alaskan God $7 and Karli’s Karma $9.50.
Allen is unsure if Startrade is good enough to win the Railway Stakes, but she’s certain he will be trying his heart out.
“He’s been a fighter from the start,” Allen said.
“You can never give up.
“Startrade almost died as yearling and we came close to losing him.
“Maybe he’s paying us back now.
“It’s not about the money anyhow, it’s just the fact we are in it.
“I know he’ll be trying very hard.”
The Railway Stakes barrier draw will be conducted this afternoon (Tuesday).
