Charm Stone has once again proven her affinity for resuming in style, storming to victory in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley.
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained mare, who claimed the Sangster Stakes first-up last campaign, defied her $31 starting price on Friday night. Guided perfectly by Blake Shinn, celebrating his birthday, she swept past Baraqiel ($4.60) to win by two lengths, with Magic Time ($7.50) third.
Price said Charm Stone had thrived this preparation after disappointing in the Group 1 The Goodwood last time in. “She’s a beautiful mare and it’s so great to see her win another Group 1,” he said.
Shinn called it a special victory. “She pinged the lids, got a great trail, and got out at the turn. She put the race to bed, and it was a phenomenal win.”
A 10 per cent share in Charm Stone sold for $310,000 earlier this week, valuing her at $3.1 million — a figure certain to rise after her latest Group 1 triumph.