Arapaho, the seven-year-old gelding, embarks on a pivotal journey in the Group 2 Zipping Classic, seeking to recapture his winning spirit and showcase the resilience that has endeared him to fans and stable staff alike.
Arapaho has faced a tough journey for over 18 months, yet this experience has reinforced his status as one of the most beloved members of Bjorn Baker’s stable. This Saturday, the seven-year-old gelding will seek to regain his winning form in the esteemed Group 2 Zipping Classic at Caulfield. Moving up to his preferred distance of 2400 meters in the fourth race of his current campaign, he appears poised to deliver yet another impressive performance.
Although Arapaho has been on a lengthy losing streak since his last win in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes at Rosehill in March 2023, his recent performances indicate he is finding his form again. In his latest outing at the Group 1 Champions Stakes (2000m) at Flemington, he demonstrated remarkable resilience. Starting at 71 to 1 odds, he exceeded expectations by finishing an impressive fifth, coming in just behind the strong competitor Via Sistina, showcasing his persistent competitive nature.
Luke Hilton, racing manager for Bjorn Baker, expressed high praise for Arapaho's performance in the Champions Stakes. “He was outstanding in his last race,” Hilton remarked. “Starting from a challenging position, he had to fall back and cover additional ground. Nevertheless, he finished strong, demonstrating just how much energy he still has left.” This performance highlights Arapaho's capability to rise above challenges and establishes him as a formidable contender for the upcoming race on Saturday.
The transition to 2400 meters is a vital aspect of Arapaho's preparation. This is a distance in which he has traditionally excelled, and Hilton is convinced it will highlight his strengths. “This is his preferred distance. His performances in the last two races demonstrate that he has returned to form,” Hilton remarked. “It’s a relief to witness his resurgence. He is an exceptional horse in our stable—everyone here holds him in high regard. For both the owners and Arapaho himself, it’s remarkable to see him competing successfully once more.”
Arapaho stands out as one of the top contenders for the $750,000 prize, and he will be back in the saddle with jockey Rachel King. King, who led him to victory in the Tancred Stakes, is ideally positioned to take advantage of his recent form. This Saturday’s race offers Arapaho not only a chance to showcase his abilities but also signals the concluding metro feature day of the Victorian Spring Racing Carnival, elevating the significance of the event.
Hilton's belief in Arapaho's preparedness is unmistakable. "If he performs as we’ve observed recently, he will be extremely difficult to defeat," he stated. "This race presents an excellent opportunity for him to showcase to everyone why he is such a valued member of our team." The stable’s confidence in the gelding highlights his reliability and lasting talent, qualities that have garnered him respect throughout the racing community.
Arapaho's return to form is truly inspiring. Facing numerous setbacks and challenges, he has shown remarkable resilience and determination that strike a chord with both fans and the stable team. As he prepares to compete in the Zipping Classic, he carries the aspirations of many, ready to add another chapter to his illustrious career. All attention will be on him to see if this renowned stayer can regain his position among the elite in racing.
