
James Cummings is sticking with a familiar strategy for one of his geldings in Saturday’s Futurity Stakes, but the other will be stepping into new territory.
Tom Kitten will be making his first Victorian start in over two years when he returns in the $750,000 Group 1.
Tom Kitten’s first three starts included two in Victoria, with his most recent being the 2023 Group 2 VRC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Flemington, where he finished fifth. Since then, the son of Harry Angel has raced only in Sydney.
This Saturday will be Tom Kitten’s debut at Caulfield, and Cummings was happy with his low draw in gate two for the 1400-metre weight-for-age event.
“He hasn’t had the opportunity to familiarise himself with Caulfield yet, but the inside draw is advantageous for him, and Ben Melham should be able to have a smooth run,” Cummings said.
“He faces a strong field here, but he’s ready to perform well.”
The Futurity will be Tom Kitten’s first race since finishing third in the Golden Eagle (1500m), and the four-year-old showed good form in a recent jumpout, finishing third. Cummings noted that his performance in this race will significantly impact the direction of his preparation.
“We have options for him, including the possibility of running in the All-Star Mile if he does well in the Futurity,” Cummings said.
“I could also bring him back for the George Ryder and he’s currently one of our key contenders for the Doncaster.”
“That’s a race we have in mind for him, so that’s where he’s focused right now.”
Tom Kitten will start directly outside stablemate Pericles, who finished second to Mr Brightside in last year’s Futurity Stakes.
The Street Boss gelding also placed in the Group 2 P B Lawrence Stakes over the Caulfield 1400m. While he’s had several chances at Group 1 level, Cummings is happy to keep taking opportunities while the horse continues to race well.
“He’s already raced at Caulfield and Blake (Shinn) has a strong connection with him,” Cummings said.
“He’s a consistent performer and will certainly put in a solid race.”
“Although he hasn’t won at Group 1 level in 10 attempts, one of these times could be his breakthrough.”
The Futurity Stakes will precede the highlight of Saturday’s program, the $2 million Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m), where Cummings will be represented by Tempted, last-start runner-up in the Group 3 Widden Stakes.