The Ciaron Maher team fully recognises the challenge facing Jimmysstar with each appearance on the track.
This New Zealand-bred runner is considered among the top performers in Australia, yet his typical racing style leaves him open to defeat.
Jimmysstar boasts an impressive ledger, securing 11 triumphs from 26 outings and over $8.5 million in earnings, which Maher and his partners aim to extend in the Group 1 Doomben 10,000 (1200m) this Saturday.
Crucially, rider Ethan Brown has secured permission from Hong Kong duties to travel and partner Jimmysstar on Saturday.
Brown was in the saddle for the gelding’s previous four successes and guided him to third place in the All-Aged Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on April 18, his latest effort.
Jack Turnbull, National Assistant Trainer for Ciaron Maher Racing, noted that although Jimmysstar might seem to have underperformed on the surface, the group remains undeterred.
“The only run that was sub-par was at Caulfield and you could really argue the track that day,” Turnbull said.
“Our team have been complimentary of his performances, but it’s been whether he’s copped a bump out of the gates, or whether he’s got too far back.
“I know there was this expectation that he was going to go bang, bang, bang, but unfortunately his pattern is to get back and against that class of horse, he needs to be scintillating to be reeling them off and winning.
“His runs have been good and improving and he will continue to improve, especially poking up to Queensland at this time of year.”
Turnbull mentioned Jimmysstar has been stabled at Bong Bong since the All-Aged Stakes, with a yard next to Pride Of Jenni, who recaptured victory at the Gold Coast last Saturday.
He added the gelding will be transported to Brisbane this week for the Doomben 10,000, where he has barrier 11.
Less favourably placed is stable companion Another Wil with barrier 19 in the 19-runner contest.
Another Wil hasn’t raced since spring, ending well back in the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield.
The Maher camp intended a Brisbane Winter Carnival campaign for the gelding, who has nine wins from 18 starts.
“The 1200 metres is probably not his best and it’s not a good draw, but he’s up there and has galloped at Doomben,” Turnbull said.
Ryan Maloney is confirmed to ride, while fellow stablemate Warnie draws gate nine for Mark Zahra.
Explore the betting markets for the race ahead of this weekend’s Doomben 10,000 action.