He’s poised to contest several majors in Melton on Saturday night, with each of his runners ‘in the market’ and considered a reasonable chance.
For example, Soho Americano is vying for favouritism in the Victoria Oaks despite her second-row draw, while Sao Paulo Simba – also from the second row – is on the fourth line of betting at $8.50 in the Derby.
One feature that appears to be at Michael Stanley’s mercy, however, is the Shakamaker Classic. Stanley has three entrants in the two-year-old event, including two of the top three contenders.
Soho Park Avenue heads TAB Fixed Odds markets at $3.20 from barrier six, with Soho Charmer listed at $4.50 from gate four. Debutante colt Most Exciting splits the pair in draw and odds at $3.80.
“There is not a lot between Soho Park Avenue and Soho Charmer,” Stanley said. “They are both very good horses.
“The draw favours Charmer a touch better, as Avenue is out wide and might get stuck there or have to go back to find a spot.
“Charmer’s only had two starts, but he has great gate speed, as he showed when wide at his latest start but crossed comfortably.
“He is up in grade this time, but he’s sharp enough off the gate to put himself in a good spot.
“I’m not too worried about Avenue’s draw, as he is a real tradesman-like fella, who can come off the gate, settle and show a sharp turn of foot.”
Soho Majestic rounds out the stablemates, with the son of Bettors Delight to come from gate two.
Although he has won two of his last three starts, Soho Majestic is among the outsiders at $16.
“He’s a nice type in his own right, but just a little below the other two,” Stanley said. “But he’s drawn well and should land straight in the running line.
“He will run a good race, but will benefit from a favourite passage.”