Maher stable hopes import can show carnival potential amid Sydney move

Ciaron Maher's racing stable is currently placing high hopes on a new imported thoroughbred named Zabiari, who recently arrived in Australia and is now preparing for his debut in Sydney. This marks a significant step in Maher's strategic expansion into New South Wales, as he prepares to relocate his primary operations to the newly acquired Crown Lodge stables at Warwick Farm. Zabiari, a five-year-old colt purchased for €450,000 at the Arqana Arc Sale in France, has already demonstrated promise by winning two Group 3 races in his homeland. His arrival in Australia came in November, facilitated by Astute Bloodstock's Louis Le Metayer, who secured the son of Wootton Bassett for the Maher stable.

Zabiari is set to make his Australian debut in the listed Civic Stakes (1400 meters) at Randwick on Saturday, running alongside stablemate Eliyass. This race serves as a crucial early test for both horses, particularly for Zabiari, who has not competed since his arrival in Australia. Johann Gerard-Dubord, Maher's NSW assistant trainer, has been overseeing Zabiari's extensive preparation, emphasizing the need for careful acclimation to the local conditions and the softer winter tracks typical of Sydney. Despite being fit and having completed numerous trials, Zabiari will not wear blinkers during his debut, a decision made to allow him to adapt without additional pressure.

Gerard-Dubord expressed optimism about Zabiari's potential, suggesting that based on his performance in France, the colt might eventually compete in Sydney's premier Group 1 handicap mile races such as the Epsom and Doncaster Handicaps. However, he acknowledged that achieving this goal would depend heavily on how Zabiari performs in upcoming races. The Doncaster, traditionally held on wet tracks, could provide an ideal environment for Zabiari, given his likely preference for softer ground.

Meanwhile, Eliyass, a former Tulloch Lodge-trained import, is also making a comeback after a year off due to injuries requiring surgical intervention on both front fetlocks. Although not at his peak condition, Eliyass is expected to serve as a valuable trial for the team, especially considering his previous success in stakes races upon his initial arrival in Australia. With a challenging gate position and carrying considerable weight, Eliyass's strategy involves a cautious approach to ensure he reaches the finish line effectively.

Maher's other notable contender for the day is Sunshineinmypocket, who has shown promising signs following a successful return from a year-long hiatus. The five-year-old broke his winless streak on the Gold Coast and is set to face another challenge at Randwick. Gerard-Dubord noted that despite his recent successes, Sunshineinmypocket still has untapped potential, particularly if the pace of the race suits his style, which relies more on tempo than speed.

In addition to these developments, Maher has officially announced his plans to shift his primary base of operations to the Crown Lodge stables at Warwick Farm, a move that has been finalized after Racing NSW confirmed the acquisition of the premises from Godolphin. This transition follows a period during which Godolphin had moved away from a private training model, leaving Crown Lodge largely unused. Maher will vacate his current leases at Leilani Lodge in Randwick and his Bong Bong facility in the Southern Highlands, although he intends to retain his Bobs Farm property in Port Stephens for continued use.

This relocation aims to consolidate Maher's operations under one roof, reducing logistical challenges associated with managing multiple facilities. With approximately 90-100 horses at Bong Bong and around 30 at Warwick Farm, the overall number of horses remains relatively consistent, though the move promises reduced travel requirements. Maher has long aimed to maintain an equitable distribution of his team between NSW and Victoria, and this strategic adjustment represents a pivotal moment in achieving that balance. As the stable continues to evolve, the focus remains on leveraging each new opportunity to enhance their competitive edge within the racing community.