Having promised a lot and finally delivering, Climbing Star (NZ) (Zoustar) is heading back to Adelaide in search of another Stakes race victory.
Breaking through for her maiden Stakes win in the Listed Matrice Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville on March 23, Climbing Star, who races in the colours of breeder and co-owner Qatar Bloodstock, will on Saturday contest the Gr.3 R N Irwin Stakes (1100m) at that same venue.
Pakenham-based trainer Phillip Stokes, who also has a stable at Morphettville, said it was not ideal to be dropping back in distance, but added it was the only suitable option for the mare.
“It’s not ideal, but we haven’t done much with her,” Stokes said.
“It’s the right race for her as there wasn’t one here for her.”
A debut winner in maiden grade at Cranbourne in September 2022, Climbing Star ran in six Stakes races at her next 10 appearances prior to taking out the Matrice Stakes.
Stokes said he had finally worked out Climbing Star was a sprinter, rather than a 1400m to 1600m galloper, races he had previously been trying to win with the mare.
