Much has transpired since Charm Stone last clinched the Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley.

The mare, trained by Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr, secured last year’s race at The Valley first-up and is now set to contest this year’s Group 1 1200m sprint at Caulfield on Sunday, aiming to add it to her impressive record.

This year’s Manikato Stakes has been relocated to Caulfield as the Moonee Valley track undergoes essential reconstruction.

Blake Shinn, who partnered Charm Stone to a dominant win last year, has opted to ride Geegees Mistruth on Sunday, despite riding the mare in two recent trials at Cranbourne.

Damian Lane will take the reins aboard Charm Stone for this upcoming challenge.

Charm Stone’s last outing was a close third in the Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville back in April, following which a planned excursion to Royal Ascot was ultimately cancelled.

Price indicated that a potential trip to Royal Ascot next year remains a possibility for Charm Stone, contingent on her performance this spring and in the autumn season meeting expectations.

“She had an entrapped epiglottis,” Price disclosed.

“I informed Seamus (Mills) that I wouldn’t risk a trip to Royal Ascot, given she is a magnificent mare and too valuable to jeopardise. I’m aware the owners are keen on Royal Ascot, and she hasn’t been over-raced; if she’s in good health and spirits, why not aim for it next year.

“She raced with that issue in the Sangster, and she was beaten a nose, but I believe she can recapture her peak form. The entrapped epiglottis is the least significant of the procedures, and her throat is now in perfect condition. She’s a beautiful mare, in fine fettle.”

In her Manikato triumph last year, Charm Stone benefited from barrier two and an ideal run throughout the race.

This year presents a different scenario from barrier 11, though Price views Caulfield as a more favourable track than The Valley for a horse drawn wide.

“I see no downside to that,” Price commented.

“The 1200 metres is a suitable starting distance. The chute provides a fair run, and typically, every horse gets its opportunity, particularly over 1200 metres.”

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