Trainer Michael Trotter is buoyed by the news that top jockey Blake Shinn will reunite with Apache Song in her return to racing on Saturday.
The mare resumes in the Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield, with Shinn booked to ride after guiding her in three of her four career wins.
“It’s great that Blake is riding her, as he had the pick of a few from what I can gather,” Trotter said.
Shinn, currently leading the Melbourne Jockeys’ Premiership, partnered Apache Song in a Cranbourne jump-out win on July 14 and was pleased with her trial work.
“Her second one was excellent, and Blake’s post-trial comments were very pleasing,” Trotter added.
Apache Song hasn’t raced since finishing last at Moonee Valley in February, but prior to that placed third in the Group 2 Australia Stakes (1200m).
Trotter admitted Caulfield hasn’t been her favourite track, but is optimistic this prep will be different.
“Maturity wise she’s improved, both mentally and physically, so we’re pretty excited about that.”