Trainer Glen Thompson believes Certain Rise has the talent to win Saturday’s Peter Le Grand Stakes at Caulfield, but acknowledges the challenges posed by her barrier 10 draw, now nine with one scratching. While confident in her ability, Thompson is concerned about her first-up preparation with just one jumpout before the race. However, with Blake Shinn aboard, he remains hopeful. “It’s Caulfield with only one bend, and we’ve got Blake on, so he’ll work it out,” Thompson said.
Certain Rise, who boasts two wins from three starts, will seek to add to her record after a break since her Listed Crockett Stakes (1200m) victory. Thompson and co-trainer Mike Moroney will also saddle Plymouth in the Group 2 Autumn Stakes. The son of The Autumn Sun has been showing promise since a break and impressed in January’s jumpouts at Flemington. With blinkers on, Shinn will ride him from barrier one, and Thompson is optimistic that Plymouth’s stronger frame will lead to better results.