Phillip Stokes had already secured Adelaide jockey Lachlan Neindorf for Stretan Angel’s ride in the Newmarket Handicap at Flemington, following their Group 1 victory in the Sangster Stakes last year.

Stokes had anticipated Stretan Angel would carry around 52kg in Saturday’s Group 1 1200m sprint, considering the expected large field and spread of weights. However, the failure of several big-name horses to enter has led to Jimmysstar, the Oakleigh Plate winner, receiving topweight of 58kg, pushing up the weights for others close in the ratings.

As a result, Stretan Angel will carry 55.5kg, 3.5kg more than expected, but Neindorf will continue his association with the mare.

“Neindorf is going in with a lot of confidence,” Stokes said. “He’s riding well for the stable, and we’re happy to have him on.”

Stretan Angel has two wins to her name, including a victory in the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington last September and a Listed win at Morphettville in April 2023. She has also placed second in two Group 1 races, including the Goodwood and the Group 1 Lightning Stakes earlier this month.

“Her return in the Lightning was better than expected,” Stokes said. “She ran second when I had her in the top four, which was great.”

Stokes believes the 1200m distance of the Newmarket Handicap is Stretan Angel’s “sweet spot,” and despite the tougher competition, he’s excited for her chances.

“She’ll have to improve, but she meets them better at the weights, and we’re really looking forward to it.”