Success in a pair of All-Star Mile races has marked Tom Kitten as among Australia’s top 1600m performers, and now he has an opportunity this weekend to showcase his ability over 2000m once more.
The five-year-old gelding aims to secure his initial victory at the distance since taking out the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes back in October 2023, as he prepares to contest the $2 million Australian Cup at Flemington.
Sired by ex-European speedster Harry Angel, Tom Kitten achieved placings in last season’s Queen Elizabeth Stakes and Champions Stakes – victories for Via Sistina – during his previous two outings at 2000m, and co-trainer Sam Freedman believes the step up from his All-Star Mile triumph is ideal.
“He’s in good form and at 2000 metres he might be slightly more effective than the mile,” Freedman, who trains in partnership with his father Anthony, said.
“He bounced out of the (last) run really well, so he’s going to be ready to go next week.
“Three weeks between runs suits and his fitness is good.”
In the Australian Cup, Tom Kitten looks to claim a third consecutive success this preparation, following triumphs in the Group 3 Heffernan Stakes (1400m) and then repeating victory in the All-Star Mile at Flemington on March 7.
With eight victories from 31 outings plus another eight places, the Godolphin-bred gelding has earned more than $7.5 million in prizemoney.
Tom Kitten heads a field of 16 nominations for the Australian Cup, where rivals such as Pride Of Jenni, Birdman and last year’s winner Light Infantry Man stand out among the entries.
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