Kent Aims for Cranbourne Cup Glory with Promising Globe

Michael Kent Jnr shares a profound bond with the Cranbourne Cup, a race that has significantly influenced his career. Being the son of a well-known figure in the local racing community, Kent aims to carve out his own place in the annals of history with Globe, a six-year-old horse that has demonstrated substantial potential. With 41 entries for this Saturday's $500,000 Listed Cranbourne Cup (1600m), Globe's performance represents not just a personal aspiration for Kent but also an opportunity to further the family legacy.

Mick Price, who has been Kent's training partner since they moved to Cranbourne three years ago, has experienced success in the Cranbourne Cup on two occasions with Pakal and Octabello. However, since their partnership began, they have yet to secure a victory, and Kent is eager to turn that around. His father, a longtime resident of the Cranbourne training facility, played a significant role in the 2010 Cranbourne Cup quinella alongside Starmon and My Bently, which further deepened the family's connection to the race. Kent is now ready to uphold that legacy, especially following a series of impressive performances by Globe.

Globe's journey has encountered several obstacles. Following his favoritism in last year's Group 2 Feehan Stakes, the horse experienced a setback due to a heart irregularity that kept him out of action for some time. However, after a recovery period, Globe made a strong return, finishing fourth in the Group 3 Moonga Stakes at Caulfield in October. Kent is now optimistic that Globe has regained his optimal physical condition and mental acuity, which could be vital for the upcoming race. "After some uncertainty about whether we'd be able to get him back to this level, Mick and I can both say that Globe has never appeared better," Kent stated. "He's a high-energy, anxious horse, but he's currently in excellent form. His mindset is on point, and he is definitely gaining momentum."

In his latest races, Globe exhibited a tenacious, forward-moving style that has defined his approach, even when confronted with fierce competition. During the Moonga Stakes, he maintained his position despite intense pressure from Buffalo River and Jigsaw, the latter of whom set a brisk pace. Amidst a tough race atmosphere, Globe secured fourth place, demonstrating considerable resilience. Following that, in the Listed Chester Manifold Stakes at Flemington, Globe claimed second place, narrowly missing out on victory against the highly-rated Light Infantry Man.

As Kent anticipates the Cranbourne Cup, he recognizes the formidable competition that Globe will face. The lineup features several distinguished competitors, including Pinstriped, the winner of the Memsie Stakes, and Steparty, who finished in the top positions during last week’s Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, as well as Uncle Bryn, a previous Cup champion. Moreover, with emerging talents like Griff and Kent’s own horses, Nugget and Detonator Jack, Globe will need to perform at his highest level.

For Kent, winning the Cranbourne Cup would represent the pinnacle of his years of hard work, dedication, and an unyielding quest for excellence, fulfilling a long-held dream that he shares with his father. This victory would not only signify a personal achievement but also stand as a testament to his family's lasting legacy in the sport. A win would secure Globe's position in the history of the race, placing him among the legends who have succeeded at this esteemed venue.