A leading chance in the early markets for both the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups later this spring, our European import Deakin will commence his campaign at Caulfield this Saturday. However, a late change of plan will see him skip the star-studded G1 Memsie Stakes in favour of the more suitable Benchmark 100 Handicap over the same 1400m journey.
Deakin has prepared well through the winter, pleasing all involved with his work at home and in two preparatory trials for Phillip Stokes. In the first at Caulfield in July over an unsuitable 800m, Deakin settled towards the tail of the field, sticking closest to the rail. He was noticeably strong through the line in foggy conditions whilst just warming up.
Trial at Caulfield on July 30, 2025.
A fortnight later at Pakenham, Deakin was kept wide and out of trouble in a quality 1200m trial field that included G1 SA Derby runner-up Statuario and Andrew Ramsden winner Basilinna. Deakin finished off nicely into second, behind Statuario, pleasing jockey Daniel Stackhouse, who reported to owners “he went super. Happy, flowing, lovely rhythm, action good. Went through his gears and had a nice blow, so he’s well on target”.
Trial at Pakenham on August 12, 2025.
The strong capacity field for Saturday’s G1 Memsie Stakes influenced the late change in direction. Given his longer-term aims, it was not seen as necessary for him to take on G1-quality shorter distance types like Tom Kitten, Mr Brightside, Antino, Treasurethemoment and Fangirl in his first-up reappearance. The BM100 instead will allow him to prove competitive and have an enjoyable race day experience. Daniel Stackhouse will ride from gate 3, with the horse asked to carry 61.5kg.
Should Deakin run to expectation on Saturday, his spring plan from here will likely incorporate the Makybe Diva or Underwood Stakes, followed by the Turnbull Stakes, leading to his Caulfield Cup attempt. The Melbourne Cup is planned to be the fifth run of his preparation.
Deakin may have opposition on Saturday in the form of OTI’s Green Fly, who will be hoping the forecast rain appears to enable him to take his place in this race. On the opposite side of that fence, Yoshinobu could make his Caulfield debut for Annabel & Rob Archibald in Race 3, having raced much of his career in Sydney. In search of firmer ground than Sydney offers, Yoshinobu hopes the forecast is proven incorrect as he looks to add to his exciting win two starts back for his new owners.