Igotcha lines up in the Shooting Stars at Cranbourne

The Ciaron Maher stable will be out to capture another Shooting Stars success at Cranbourne, this time with an up-and-coming mare.

On the Cranbourne Cup program 12 months ago, Jimmysstar announced his arrival with an explosive victory coming off a success at Bendigo.

The Shooting Stars (1500m) on Saturday will see Igotcha line up for the Maher stable with the lightly raced five-year-old heading to the races for only the tenth time.

Maher’s assistant-trainer Jack Turnbull said Saturday’s race was a nice option for the mare over a suitable journey and for good prize money.

“She keeps improving but we’ve had to space her runs just due to her weight,” Turnbull said.

“She’s always been a bit strung out and hollow looking but (owner) Gerry Ryan has been very good, giving us whatever time that she has needed.

“She’s down at the beach and doesn’t do a lot of galloping, instead more slower, longer work.”

Igotcha has won three of her nine starts to date, putting back-to-back victories together at Mornington and Moe before running a last start second over 1600m at Moonee Valley earlier in the month.

Saturday’s race carries $150,000 in prize money at Class 3 level.

“It profiles as the right race for her being restricted class and for good prize money, it’s a good option,” Turnbull said.

“It’s a rich race and Jimmysstar ran and won it 12 months ago.”

Jimmysstar has gone on to win a further three races since last year’s success, graduating to Group 1 level at his most recent appearance in the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield on November 16.

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