Jimmysstar Claims C.F. Orr Stakes Crown in Dominant Fashion
The powerhouse galloper Jimmysstar has emphatically confirmed his position as the nation's finest sprinter-miler, capturing the Group 1 C.F. Orr Stakes (1400m) in a brilliant display at Caulfield on Saturday. With the race's schedule shifted from its traditional early February spot to the tail-end of the Spring racing season, this marked the second running of the Orr Stakes in 2025, and trainer Ciaron Maher has now secured victory in both editions.
A Tactical Masterclass Secures the Win
Jumping smoothly under jockey Ethan Brown, the $1.75 favourite Jimmysstar settled comfortably in the field, maintaining a crucial tactical position throughout. He held a significant advantage over his main rival, the $3.50 chance Angel Capital, who was forced to settle at the rear of the field. While the Chris Waller-trained colt finished strongly in the straight, he never truly looked like catching the leader.
Jimmysstar crossed the finish line a clear winner, defeating Angel Capital by a length. A further length behind in third place was the $5.50 third favourite, Evaporate. This triumph adds another major victory to Jimmysstar's outstanding Spring campaign, following his heavy track win in the Russel Balding Stakes (1300m) in Sydney just one start prior.
Confidence High in the Winning Camp
Trainer Ciaron Maher expressed his unwavering confidence in his star horse leading up to the race. He revealed that the 1400-metre distance was perfectly suited to Jimmysstar's strengths. "He's a ripper," Maher enthused. "I was so confident over the last couple of weeks with him. I knew he'd be better today."
Maher was full of praise for jockey Ethan Brown, highlighting their successful partnership. "Browny just rides him so well. He was in the driver's seat most of the way. He's got a great rapport with him," Maher said, also commending his team for seamlessly managing the horse's travel from Sydney to Melbourne.
For jockey Ethan Brown, the win was especially sweet, declaring Jimmysstar his undisputed favourite. "By far, he's such a beauty," Brown stated. "He is the ultimate professional and gives me such an amazing feeling." This victory marked Brown's 10th career Group 1 win and his second aboard Jimmysstar.
The milestone was equally significant for Ciaron Maher, for whom this represented his 60th Group 1 winner as a trainer. He achieved exactly half of this impressive tally in partnership with his former training colleague, David Eustace.
