Michael Kent Jnr aims to honor his family's racing legacy at the Cranbourne Cup with Globe, a promising horse whose resilience and recent form make him a strong contender for victory in this prestigious event.
Michael Kent Jnr shares a profound connection to the Cranbourne Cup, a race that has influenced his career in numerous ways. Being the son of a significant figure in the local racing community, Kent aims to carve out his own place in history with Globe, a six-year-old horse that has displayed great potential. With 41 entries lined up 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 enhance a family legacy.
Mick Price, who has been Kent's training partner since their move to Cranbourne three years ago, has celebrated victory in the Cranbourne Cup on two occasions with Pakal and Octabello. Despite their partnership, the Cup win has slipped through their fingers, and Kent is eager to alter that narrative. His father, a long-standing member of the Cranbourne training community, played a role in the 2010 Cranbourne Cup quinella with Starmon and My Bently, which further deepens the family's connection to the event. Kent is now ready to uphold that legacy, especially following a streak of impressive outings from Globe.
Globe has faced several hurdles on his journey. Following his status as a favorite in last year’s Group 2 Feehan Stakes, the horse encountered a setback due to a heart irregularity that put him out of action for a period. Nevertheless, after a recovery phase, Globe showed a return to form by finishing fourth in the Group 3 Moonga Stakes at Caulfield in October. Kent is now optimistic that Globe has regained his peak physical condition and mental acuity, elements that could be vital for the upcoming race. “After some uncertainty regarding whether we could bring him back to this level, Mick and I can both agree that Globe has never looked better,” Kent stated. “He’s an energetic and somewhat anxious horse, but he’s in outstanding form at the moment. His mindset is right, and he’s definitely gaining traction.”
In his latest races, Globe showcased his signature forward-running style, which he maintained even amidst fierce competition. During the Moonga Stakes, he stood his ground against intense pressure from Buffalo River and Jigsaw, the latter of whom set a fast pace. Despite the tough circumstances, Globe managed to secure fourth place, demonstrating remarkable resilience. In his next competition, the Listed Chester Manifold Stakes at Flemington, Globe came in second, narrowly losing to the highly regarded Light Infantry Man.
As the Cranbourne Cup approaches, Kent is keenly aware of the strong competition facing Globe. The lineup features several skilled opponents, including Memsie Stakes champion Pinstriped, Steparty, who finished well in last week's Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, and former Cup winner Uncle Bryn. Furthermore, the inclusion of emerging talents like Griff, along with Kent's stablemates Nugget and Detonator Jack, underscores the necessity for Globe to perform at his highest level.
For Kent, winning the Cranbourne Cup would represent the highest form of recognition following years of commitment, hard work, and an unwavering quest for excellence. It would encapsulate a long-held dream that he shares with his father. This victory would not only signify a personal achievement but also honor the lasting legacy of his family within the sport. A triumph would secure Globe’s position in the historical records of the race, placing him among the esteemed champions who have succeeded at this renowned venue.
