Daniel and Ben Pearce’s classy three-year-old Money Maher will return to racing at Ascot today.
The Al Maher colt will have his first start since September 23 when he contests the $100,000 Listed Conquer Cystic Fibrosis Fairetha Stakes (1400m) with Jarrad Noske aboard.
Money Maher ($16) shot into contention for the $500,000 Group Two WA Guineas (1600m) on November 25 following two impressive wins during his last preparation.
He had a taste of stakes-level racing when he finished third to Debellatio, who he meets again today, in the Group Three WA Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) last Autumn.
The Pearce brothers expect Money Maher to improve after today’s run, however, they are confident he’ll run a bold race on return.
The stable will also saddle-up Captain Stirling ($23) in the colts and geldings feature event.
The Written Tycoon gelding wasn’t suited when forced to race against his preferred pattern due to jumping from the outside barrier at his most recent start and appears to be a likely improver jumping from barrier five today as well as having the addition of blinkers.
Joseph Azzopardi retains the mount.
Meanwhile, Viscount five-year-old Pushin’ Shapes ($6.00) will also be vying for black-type success when he takes part in the $100,000 Listed CBRE Conquer Cystic Fibrosis Ascot Gold Cup (1800m).
The gelding was an impressive winner at his most recent start on October 21 and the Pearce yard believe the 1800m distance is his pet trip.
He’ll jump from barrier three in a 10-horse field headed by last season’s WA Derby winner Gatting ($2.50).
Azzopardi will partner Pushin’ Shapes again.
Danehill Express six-year-old Tenterden ($5.00) appears to be a key player in the Ballpoint Construction Group Handicap (1000m) earlier in the day after a solid last-start effort when a close-up fourth to Celebrity Dream.
The gelding should be able to enjoy an ideal run in transit from barrier three and has the services of regular rider Peter Hall in the saddle.
Pearce Racing will be represented by three runners at tomorrow’s Rockingham Beach Cup gala event.