Ciaron Maher is hoping his use of the Alister Clark Stakes as an Australian Derby lead-up pays off this time with emerging star Shanwah.
The three-year-old arrives at Randwick as the winner of his past four starts, including the Autumn Classic and Alister Clark Stakes. Maher has previously won the ATC Australian Derby with Hitotsu and Explosive Jack but says Shanwah’s preparation mirrors that of Global Exchange and Ruthven, who also contested the Derby after similar lead-ups.
“I think Shanwah is better than those horses,” Maher said. “Any sort of track won’t worry him. He just keeps stepping up.”
By the exciting stallion Too Darn Hot, Shanwah has shown real promise since stepping up in distance. Maher believes his class and stamina make him a strong Derby contender, and his experience racing clockwise in Sydney adds to his appeal.
Shanwah is currently an $8 chance, jumping from gate four in a 23-horse field, with Aeliana the $3.50 favourite.