Trainer Jason Coyle is hoping for a fairytale finish with veteran gelding Chateaux Park as the nine-year-old prepares to race at Newcastle on Wednesday. The stable stalwart, who has been a consistent performer over the years, is in the twilight of his career and Coyle is eager to see him salute the judge one last time.
Chateaux Park's most recent victory came in August 2023 at Warwick Farm, but he has since placed in the top five in 17 of his 34 starts. Last month, he finished third behind Affermato at Hawkesbury, and two weeks ago he was fifth to Oceanfront in a Benchmark 72 at Newcastle. Coyle believes the gelding still has what it takes to be competitive.
“He’s always a chance. It doesn’t matter where he runs - going around a $51 or $4.60 - if he brings his best, he’s always a hope,” Coyle said. “His runs this preparation on top of the ground are building towards what I hope is one of his last wins before he is retired.”
Coyle has selected the ACG Benchmark 64 Handicap (1900m) for Chateaux Park, describing it as a suitable race. “If there is a little bit of juice in the track and he can get the right run in transit, this race looks a nice set up for him,” he added. The trainer also noted that barrier five and a small field should help the gelding settle closer to the pace.
Meanwhile, Coyle will debut Terra Lumina in the Newcastle Car And Truck Super Maiden Plate (900m). The first-season son of Earthlight has shown promise in trials, finishing second in his first heat but sixth in his second. “He’s a lovely athletic type of horse who just has to learn his trade now,” Coyle said.
At Randwick, Coyle will saddle up President in the TAB Handicap (1300m). The I Am Invincible gelding, purchased for $17,000 in April, has improved with each run for his new stable and won impressively at Hawkesbury last start. “From the draw and with a drop in weight, I think he can run a nice race,” Coyle said.
