Schwarz on track for Group 1 glory in CF Orr Stakes

Trainers John O’Shea and Tom Charlton have long envisioned a Group 1 win for Schwarz, aiming to solidify his future as a potential sire. From the outset of his four-year-old season, the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes (1400m) was identified as the key target for the Zoustar colt.

The plan for a light spring campaign, which saw Schwarz only make two appearances, has paved the way for precise preparation to ensure he arrives at Caulfield in peak form this Saturday.

“I always wanted to get to the Orr,” O’Shea remarked.

“Everything we were doing in the spring was about running in the Orr in the autumn.”

“He was only ever having a very light spring.”

Schwarz made an impressive return in the Group 2 Missile Stakes (1200m) at Randwick in August. His sole other spring appearance came in the Flemington straight during the Melbourne Cup Carnival, where he was comfortably outpaced.

He returned with a dominant performance in the Group 2 Australia Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on January 24, leading throughout with Blake Shinn aboard, who will also take the ride on Saturday.

O’Shea confirmed Schwarz came through the victory in great shape.

“He did a bit of pacework Thursday morning, and his rider was happy with him,” O’Shea said.

“So, it’s on to the Orr with Blake Shinn in the saddle.”

Although Schwarz has yet to race at Caulfield, with five wins from his 10 career starts, O’Shea and Charlton are planning a familiarisation gallop there on Tuesday with regular trackwork rider Ellie in the saddle.

“He has stayed down there since his win at The Valley, so we will get him over and have a look at Caulfield on Tuesday,” O’Shea said.

“He’s a bit of a trick to ride, but she seems to get on well with him.”

“He’s her second boyfriend.”

Stay up to date with the latest racing news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest racing news!